Japanese people use English (Arabic) numerals alongside traditional Japanese numerals (kanji) due to their simplicity, efficiency, and prevalence in modern contexts, especially in mathematics and technology.
Here's a breakdown of the reasons:
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Simplicity and Efficiency: Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, etc.) are often easier and quicker to write and process, especially for large numbers and mathematical calculations, compared to kanji numerals (一, 二, 三, etc.).
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Mathematical and Scientific Notation: Arabic numerals are universally used in mathematical equations, scientific formulas, and technical documents. This standardization makes communication and understanding easier across different languages and cultures.
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Technological Integration: Keyboards, calculators, and computer systems primarily use Arabic numerals. This makes them essential for digital communication, programming, and data processing.
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Reduced Ambiguity: In certain contexts, kanji numerals can be ambiguous or require more characters to represent complex numbers. Arabic numerals provide a more concise and less ambiguous representation.
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Contextual Appropriateness: The choice between Arabic and kanji numerals often depends on the context. Arabic numerals are frequently used in:
- Dates: e.g., 2023年10月26日 (October 26, 2023)
- Addresses: e.g., 〒100-0001 東京都千代田区千代田1-1
- Telephone numbers: e.g., 03-1234-5678
- Prices: e.g., ￥1,000
While kanji numerals are preferred in more traditional settings, formal documents, and when emphasizing cultural heritage.
In summary, the adoption of English (Arabic) numerals in Japan is driven by practical considerations such as efficiency, standardization in math and technology, and clarity in various contexts. They coexist with traditional Japanese numerals, with the choice depending on the specific situation and purpose.
