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Ana (Burmese: အားနာ, Burmese pronunciation: [ʔánà]) is a Burmese cultural and social value that has no direct English equivalent and is manifested by very strong inhibitions (hesitation, reluctance, restraint, or avoidance) against asserting oneself in human relations based on the fear that it will offend someone or cause someone to lose face, or become embarrassed, or be of inconvenience.[1] Ana also involves a strong sense of consideration for others' feelings and a desire not to cause them to feel psychological distress, unease, or burden.[2] Ana significantly shapes interpersonal relationships and pervades everyday social interactions, as well as political and social behaviors in Burmese society.[3]
Comparable values are found throughout Asian societies, including in Thailand, where it is called kreng jai (เกรงใจ) and in Japan, where it is called enryo (遠慮).[4]
- ^ "The Myanmar Personality". www.myanmar.gov.mm. Archived from the original on 22 August 2007. Retrieved 22 May 2022.
- ^ Seekins, Donald M. (2006). Historical dictionary of Burma (Myanmar). Scarecrow Press. p. 67. ISBN 978-0-8108-5476-5.
- ^ Spiro, Melford E. (November 1982). "Essays on Burma. by John P. Ferguson". The Journal of Asian Studies. 42 (1). Association for Asian Studies: 211–213. doi:10.2307/2055422. JSTOR 2055422. S2CID 144792695.
- ^ Andrews, Tim; Sununta Siengthai (2009). The Changing Face of Management in Thailand. Routledge. pp. 67–68. ISBN 9780203878347.