English only in America what do you mean?

Question

Are you saying that mexicans in mexico or Argentinians in Argentina should speak English because they are in America. keep in mind that Mexico is in North America.

Answer 1

No they just want to make English our official language that's it.
They are not saying that you can't speak another language or print it.
And other government documents will still be printed in other languages too, like welfare and unemployment forms ect.

Answer 2

We never said 'English only in North America', did we?

When people in Mexico or Argentina refer to America, they mean the same thing we do: the United States of America.

We go by our last name, as does Mexico.

However, while I think everyone who wants to live here should learn English (since over 100 languages are spoken here), I don't think it should be English 'only'. What you want to speak to your friends is your and their business.

Answer 3

I think people mean that American English is the predominate language in the United States of America so to have an easier time here it would help if you knew it since it is the language used in business and legal affairs here in the USA.. I speak and read both Spanish and English so I don't think I would have too much trouble understanding you if I went to a country whose dominate lengua was Spanish.

Answer 4

This was a stupid question. Clearly we know that when they say America, they mean the United States. And English IS the official language, there is no debating it. If you were to move to Mexico, you'd have to learn Spanish, same with any other country and its respective language.

Answer 5

General usage: American means those who are citizens of the USA.
Mexicans: those who are citizens of Mexico
Argintines: those who are citizens of Argentina
Etc.
Speak any language you want when in the USA but when you're are among native English speakers, do your best out of respect for being in the USA, to speak English if you can. It's the polite thing to do. You do want to be polite, right. If you are a guest, you should be. If you can't speak English and you want to live here legaly; do all you can to learn English ASAP. It will benefit you and our country to do so. Strengthen America when you come here but by all means retain your ability to speak whatever language you enjoy as a second, third or? other language. We are free here ...and freedom requires responsibility to be appropriate, civilized and considerate. Freedom and respect for others goes hand in hand.

Answer 6

The "English as our official language" debate assumes that since it is a United States issue, that the word America refers to the US in this context. If some one does not realize that, then they are too far form the debate to have a credible opinion.

"English only" as the official language of commerce and legal transactions is nothing more than common sense. speak another language to your friends, Publish newspapers, preserve your heritage, but know standard English in order to take care of yourself if you are a permanent resident of a country where it is and has been the predominant language.

Answer 7

UUGGGHHH! Sorry, but I am tired of this argument. We say America because United States of America is too much to say, let alone type. If Mexico can call themselves Mexico, when they are actually Los Estados Unidos Mexicanos (the united states of Mexico) then why cant we shorten ours too?? It just makes sense!

Answer 8

Mexico may be on the North American continent, but what we're at here is the continental United States. If you don't want to speak english, move OUT of the United States. Period. Nuff said. Thanks for visiting!

Answer 9

You hit the NAIL on the head!!!!!
If you are in the United States of America you should use the English language,,PERIOD!!!!

If I were to move to France, I would have to learn the language in order to become a productive member of their society. I WOUDLN'T EXPECT they entire country to change the language to suit me.. Get the picture now????

Answer 10

You are right to point this out .. people are a bit sloppy sometimes in their definitions ... what is at issue is if English should be the official spoken and written language in the United States ... and in my humble opinion, it should!!