This paper suggests that language training should be founded on an initial student familiarization with the dimensions of intercultural communication. Using as exemplars problems encountered by Japanese familiar with English but unfamiliar with communication theory, the paper argues that while limited linguistic competency may make it difficult for the speaker to understand or be understood, unfamiliarity with the variability of communication styles between cultures frequently causes the speaker to misunderstand or be misunderstood. Further, the paper argues that the misunderstandings resulting from differences in cultural communication styles contribute to incorrect attributions of motive and intent. The paper then presents a comparative review of the literature concerning Japanese and American communication styles along with results of a survey of 168 Japanese managers and 135 of their American co-workers in Southern California. The paper concludes that a dichotomy exists between what the Japanese want and feel themselves to be, and what is perceived about them by the Americans. Contains 19 references. (Author/RS)