PREFACE
　　　　

　　As Japan becomes more internationalized, more Japanese will be called on to give toasts, or comments, or to speak at a dinner, celebration, ceremony, seminar, or conference. People who are most effective in speaking on such occasions are most likely to become group leaders.
　　　Training in public speaking and learning to give toasts, make suitable comments, or tell appropriate short stories may be an essential part of leadership training.
　　　You may be asked to speak or give a toast or comment “on the spot” without a chance to prepare. An experienced speaker can do this easily, but it's hard for a beginner. If you're suddenly called on to “say a few words,” do just that - say only a few words. Stand up, speak up, and shut up! Say something suitable for the occasion.
　　　You may be humorous, you may tell a suitable short story, you may relate a suitable experience, or you may just make a simple, sincere statement. You might say, “It's a pleasure to be here and to meet so many wonderful people. I hope you're enjoying yourselves as much as I am. I wish you all the best of luck.”
　　　Some people carry one or two speeches they can use for almost any occasion, or perhaps one or two speeches they can use for special occasions.
　　　This website gives some toasts, comments, and short stories Japanese English learners might use for various speaking occasions. It also explains what is given and comments on when it mighｔ be used.

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