Actually it seems we more agree, don't you think?... We both effectively say that it is indeed all relative and, comparing the two, Japanese uses intonation but to a considerably lesser degree than German. It seems we also agree that Japanese is not tonal.

Yes, indeed, if a standard statement is used as a question, the intonation is raised at the end (in colloquial Japanese). They also use intonation more in emotionally charged sentences, like "what the *%@! do you think *you're* doing?" (not that anyone ever said that to me )...

However in Japan customer service is very important and using language with minimal embellishment is polite. Respectful body language is quite stiff, with blank face and pretty much no eye contact (or smile) even with other Japanese customers. Of course there are always westernised exceptions, but as a rule not. (What they actually *think* of you as an immigrant is a different issue all together!)

But I digress.... this isn't a Japanese forum

Obviously such demonstrations are not standardly polite in Switzerland, so I will keep that in mind. Next time I shop at the local Coop I'll make sure I'm particularly friendly to the grumpy old bats at the check out

The language(s) and culture(s) here are really interesting and hopefully if I understand them enough it will make fitting in a bit easier... possibly a bit nerdy, but hey.