Haragei
Haragei (腹芸, はらげい) is a Japanese concept of interpersonal communication.[1] It also appears in martial arts circles, with a somewhat different meaning; see below. Literally translated, the term means "stomach art", and it refers to an exchange of thoughts and feelings that is implied in conversation, rather than explicitly stated.[1] It is a form of rhetoric intended to express real intention and true meaning through implication.[2] In some societies,[clarification needed] it can also denote charisma or strength of personality.[3]
Takie Lebra identified four dimensions of Japanese silence – truthfulness, social discretion, embarrassment and defiance.[4] In Western literature, the essence of the difference between just talking and really communicating through silence is analyzed in Harold Pinter's The Dumb Waiter.[5]
In negotiation, haragei is characterised by euphemisms, vague and indirect statements, prolonged silences and careful avoidance of any comment that might cause offense.[6] Information is communicated through timing, facial expression and emotional context, rather than through direct speech.[7] It is sometimes considered a duplicitous tactic in negotiation to obfuscate one's true intentions, which may cause haragei to be viewed with suspicion.[8] It can also be misconstrued by those with limited experience in the tactic.
Haragei also functions as a method of leadership, replacing direct orders to subordinates with subtle, non-verbal signals. It is considered a desirable trait in a leader in Japan.[9] However, it may make assigning of responsibility or blame to the leader difficult.[citation needed]