Communicating through language barriers
Communicating in a foreign country can be very difficult. If you dont speak the language of the country you are visiting, dont try to learn it a week before you go. It just does’nt work. Assume the people in a country abroad have no idea what your talking about, Because they dont. Its not hopeless, there are key ways to communicate as an American in a foreign country. It makes your trip that much more interesting.
Tips to Overcome Language Barriers
- Avoid using slang. America has so much slang that we use, we don’t realize how much we do. A person in Europe and Asia is not going to understand “wassup?” “Howzit goin?” “this place is sick” They dont even understand regular American words, like bathroom, hello, pizza etc… be careful. Bring a pocket sized dictionary for the region your visiting, it can help.
- Use World words. Have you ever been traveling abroad, and you get a blank stare when you say something simple? There are some words that are generally used all around the world. For example, Bathroom or rest room, is not used. The word Toilet is better understood, and simpler. Trust me, you’ll find the relief your bladder needs. When asking a question, don’t use full sentences, one word is better. For example, “can you take our picture please?” easily understood as “photo?” Instead of saying vacation, say Holiday.
- speak slowly. If you have to pronounce the words like a moron, do it. People in other countries tend to read your lips, so pronouncing in a slow manner helps. Pronounce every letter of the word. Its difficult to get the hang of this one, because as Americans we tend to speak loud and fast. Assume your dealing with a 3 yr old just beginning to speak.
- Actions speak louder than words. moving around, pointing, acting out what your trying to say, does wonders. If i want food, i simply move my arm to my mouth, and pretend im eating. If i need a place to sleep for the night, i fold my hands put them up to my ear and close my eyes. Use your imagination, and act goofy. If your self concious, than world travel might not be for you. Have fun with it.
- Make an educated guess. Try and Figure it out. Many words in foreign countries come from the Latin origin, just like English. Read signs, newspapers, posters, espicially if they have English on them as well. Practice your understanding. With a pocket dictionary and commen sense, the average person can figure out some important words. Most major European languages relate to English through Latin.
- Write stuff down. Take a pad of paper with you. Writing important words you see around the country can help immensley. Anything you see in the local language, that is relevant to your daily task. Also drawing a simple picture or address can be very helpful. Its much easier to understand a drawing than a mispronounced word.