When I first wrote about this “pinky promise” or “pinky swear” project I also wrote about the origins of these phrases. Personally, I thought what I wrote was fascinating ;) but it didn’t get a single comment. :( I’m giving it one more try. Once again, here’s my take on the Japanese origins of these English expressions. There’s no need to massage my ego with comments but I hope those of you who are interested the influence of Japanese language and culture on English will take the time to read it. :)
“I hate to admit my own ignorance, but when I first saw the words “pinky swear chain” I thought it was an example of a translation of Japanese (“yubi kiri genman”) that didn’t really make sense in English. In fact, however, it seems that “pinky swear” has been used in English since at least 1860: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pinky_swear What I think is even more interesting, is that “pinky swear” (along with a song much like the Japanese “yubi kiri genman” song) came into English at a point in history when only a handful of English speakers would have had direct contact with Japanese people. I imagine Commodore Perry, or a member of his crew, performing a little “yubi kiri genman” ceremony with a Japanese samurai and then introducing this exotic ritual to his compatriots upon return to the U.S. :) "
Redundantly yours,
Kirk
