I'm trying to practice my Spanish as well as talk to them in their language, but I don't want to come off as overstepping my boundaries or being rude. I always do so very mildly ( I would never try to use slang or anything) and gently with a smile. But, I don't want them to be offended or anything.
What do you think?
2007-10-07 18:18:58 · 13 answers · asked by florita 4 in Society & Culture ➔ Languages
Actually, when I was in Spain, and the people responded to my Spanish with English, I didn't like it because I felt they were saying, "Here, let me help you in your language because you're not proficient in mine". I don't want to make anybody feel that way.
2007-10-07 18:27:28 · update #1
i can see how someone could be offended somewhat or find it rude if you spoke to them in spanish and they spoke in english... and for the very reason that you mentioned --it's like being belittled and told their english isn't good enough.
i've been thru this very same dilemma a few times with a couple of languages i was trying to improve. i think the trick is, tho, is you gotta let 'em know that yr practicing the language. however, that pretty much only works with ppl yr having actual conversations with, huh?
if it's one of those quick transactions... like, i dunno, when ordering food at a restaurant... it's really not big enough of a deal to bother with it. just get yr speaking practice done, regardless of them responding back in spanish. you can get yr listening practice elsewhere :P just don't start answering back in english. be consistent! hehe
nah... really... i think most people will actually grasp right away that yr a language learner. just be sure to respond quickly and not give them the idea that their english is fubr ;)
2007-10-07 18:47:44 · answer #1 · answered by ry 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It can be rude sometimes. Not all Hispanic people can speak Spanish and it is rather impolite to assume they can speak a certain language just because of the way they look or the type of last name they have.
2007-10-07 19:46:17 · answer #2 · answered by RoVale 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I believe most would be flattered than you are using their language!
And its a great way to become fluent! I've had 3 college semesters of Spanish, made As and Bs and have forgotten most of it because I had no one to chitchat with! So keep doing what you do!
2007-10-07 18:30:42 · answer #3 · answered by chestnutlocs1 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
it is not realy rude because in no posible way u r insulting the person, however, if for any chance people would get offended by this u could tell them about u trying to practice ur spanish and im preatty sure they will understan!!!
2007-10-07 18:26:51 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
completely not! I mean, if a foreigner ever talks to me in Spanish, I'd just laugh and help him, but never take it wrong!
2016-03-23 06:22:24 · answer #5 · answered by helena 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I do it all the time and my friends and co-workers help me along. Would you be offended if someone who spoke Spanish tried to speak English with you? You would probably be eager to respond in-kind.
2007-10-07 18:23:45 · answer #6 · answered by ValleyViolet 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
No, but you can feel confortable with this if you ask if they can help with your spanish.
You will like it also if someone from another culture talks to you in English because they are trying to learn it. And they politely ask for your help.
Practica para aprender, y mucha suerte.
2007-10-07 19:01:19 · answer #7 · answered by E E 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
my suggestion is to ask first and explain that you are trying to improve on your spanish
2007-10-07 23:39:21 · answer #8 · answered by firefly 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
cuando esta en Roma,as como los Romanos.
2007-10-07 18:35:33 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
No, you are just letting them know you know their native tongue, or learning it, and I think they would be pleased that you used the opportunity to converse with them in it.
2007-10-07 18:27:39 · answer #10 · answered by Joan Z 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋