Speaking a foreign language in a classroom is one thing, but living
in a society where you have to use this language on a daily basis is
completely different. Here are some language problems you may
encounter while in the United States:
- You might not understand the local accent right away.
Regional accents vary greatly in the United States. In a group
of people from all corners of the United States, Americans can
usually easily pick out who is from Boston, New York, the
Midwest, or the South, just by the way they speak. Give yourself
time to get used to the local accent, and in time you will
probably find yourself speaking in the same way.
- Americans might not understand you right away. You will also
have your own accent and you might use a different vocabulary.
Try to speak slowly at first to make sure you are understood. Do
not be shy to ask others to speak slowly if you have trouble
understanding them.
- Americans use a lot of slang and jargon in their speech.
Their language is very colorful and full of imagery and it might
take some time to completely understand it.
- Humor, wit, and sarcasm are an integral part of American
English. Some international students have trouble adapting to
this informal style of conversation or understanding whether the
person they are speaking with is being serious or not. This,
however, should be interpreted as a mark of friendliness rather
than a show of disrespect.
- You might not know all of the abbreviations and technical
terms used in your study program or workplace. Terms such as "poli
sci" for political science, "dorms" for dormitories, or "TA" for
teaching assistant, are just a few examples of campus slang you
will encounter. The abbreviation is often the first syllable of
the word or, if two or more words are together, their initials.
If you do not understand a word or an abbreviation, simply ask
the meaning.
Give yourself time to adapt to the language and do not hesitate to
ask people to repeat what they have said, speak slowly, or explain
what they mean. It would be wise to carry a small dictionary with
you in case of emergency. Most importantly, do not be afraid to make
mistakes. This will all be part of your learning experience. |
|
