Do some people find those (like me, if you haven't guessed) who speak more than just their own language intimidating?
If so, WHY?!
What's wrong with being able to talk to more people than them?
Has anyone else had this problem?
2006-07-10 03:57:46 · 17 answers · asked by paralyzed nomad 3 in Society & Culture ➔ Languages
Most of the people that DON'T appreciate the "multilingual" talent in somebody, is because he/she's ignorant.
To have the ability, or better, to know (after maybe years of studying and traveling) how to speak different languages, it's nothing but GOOD. It opens your mind to different cultures, countries...way of thinking.
It never happened to me that somebody found it "intimidating"... or maybe... yeah, a little, because when you can turn around and speak 5 languages at the same time... they look at you.. and they're like "How can you do this?"
But, for my personal experience I found most of the problem with French people. They don't like english and they don't want you to talk english with them... or any other language.
If you can't speak french... don't even try talkin with them!
And ... really... that' CRAZY!
They should work out a little more... and go back to school!
2006-07-10 04:07:52 · answer #1 · answered by Aredhel 2 · 5⤊ 2⤋
Hi, I know four languages and I'm going to learn
Spanish and basics of Japanese. I don't think it's a problem. People show more respect. You'd be proud if it.
Well, if you meet someone who speaks both languages and you don't tell him that you do so, you'll be able to discover interesting things about that person. Since people don't like to be discovered or "spyed", they soometimes may be afraid of that kind multilinguals.
What I suggest is to use only one language as long as possible; and the second language in extereme situations. It brings you charisma.
2006-07-10 11:09:01 · answer #2 · answered by djfox_2001 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Actually I'm really happy being multilingual, I think it's fun and even more fun when you explore more languages! I can speak Arabic and English plus I understand Farsi, but sometimes I may--by accident--mix my Arabic with English during conversations :D I want to try to get rid of this habit though, specially if I want to study abroad
2006-07-11 07:38:54 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
If you hang around academics they sometimes show off by speaking in other languages. Its not intimidating, its kind of fun, especially when doing crosswords together. Really polite, cultured people will never intimidate you, they will translate as the conversation progresses.
2006-07-10 11:20:38 · answer #4 · answered by lpaganus 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I take three other languages at school, and while my friends may not find it intimidating, they think I'm crazy.
It's a unique gift, rarely seen or even thought of, so people are surprised when it comes up.
2006-07-10 14:36:47 · answer #5 · answered by Debi 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Brings back memories of the Seinfeld episode where Elaine could not understand what the Korean people where talking about at the nail salon and had a Korean speaking translator interpret (Mr. Costanza) there conversation.
Very funny and true.
2006-07-10 11:16:14 · answer #6 · answered by ? 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have some friends that can speak different languages and the only concern people have (I think) is they automatically think that you are speaking about them! I don't think it is intimidating I think that's awesome!! I just think some people are a little too self conscious about it sometimes!!
2006-07-10 11:03:57 · answer #7 · answered by Cypress 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
With the ongoing globalisation, you're left behind if you can't talk with people outside your own language barrier. It's only common sense to be multilingual.
2006-07-10 11:03:38 · answer #8 · answered by Taneesha 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Not at all, as long as you don't ram it down other people's throats.
I don't even tell people - there is no need to unless you actually need to change language to communicate. I don't see why you feel the need to, particularly if you say you find it makes others uncomfortable.
2006-07-11 18:59:01 · answer #9 · answered by the last ninja 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I an a multilingual...it is no big deal. Don't fool yourself. Get over yourself. Not everyone is asstrongly obsessed with you as you are!
2006-07-10 11:01:16 · answer #10 · answered by dude 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋