If you plan to go abroad, or if you have been abroad before, then you’ll understand the importance of trying to speak the local language. You may find that there are many English speaking residents at your place of stay; especially if you are going to a highly populated tourist area this doesn’t mean that you should speak your first language however. Speaking the local language can help you to broaden your mind, it can help you to learn new things and it can also help you to understand the culture better. This gives you access to a world of new opportunities.
Respect & Politeness
Speaking the local language also shows a sign of respect. It is understandable that you won’t be able to speak it very well, and the locals will pick up on this, but you can almost guarantee that they will appreciate your efforts. You will also find that speaking their language can bridge communication better, not to mention that it can also help you out more in your day to day activities. People say that you pick up a new language far faster when in the situation as opposed to learning from home, and this is somewhat true. It does help to know a few simple phrases before you go however, because it will help a lot when you need to ask basic questions and phrases. Many people find that speaking a new language can be fun, and it is certainly a challenge. This is especially the case if you are with friends and family, because you can laugh, help and support one another as you adapt to the new culture and language.
Top Phrases You Need To Learn
Hello is one of the top phrases that you should always learn before you go abroad. It shows politeness, respect and friendliness. It also allows you to establish communication with the locals, making it easier than ever to start a conversation without any awkward silences.
Hello:
French– Bonjour
Chinese-Nín hǎo
German– Hallo
Spanish– Hola
Japanese– Konnichiwa
Thai– Sawatdee
Where is the Bathroom?
This phrase is also very important if you want to get your bearings with the area. It is a simple question to ask with a simple answer, but it makes all the difference if you are in unfamiliar surroundings.
French– Où se trouvent les toilettes
Chinese-Cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ
German– Wo ist die Toilette
Spanish– Dónde está el baño
Japanese– Otearai wa doko desu ka?
Thai– hông náam yòo têe năi?
What is your Name? (My Name Is)
By asking someone their name, you can help to establish respect and communication, while also being polite. It also helps you to know the locals, and this can go a long way if you plan to stay abroad for some time. Below you will find translations on how to say “What is your name” As well as translations to say “My name is”.
French– Comment tu t’appelles (Je m’appelle…)
German– Wie heisst du (Mein Name ist…)
Chinese– Nǐ jiào shénme míngzì (Wǒ de míngzì shì…)
Spanish– Dónde está el baño (mi nombre es…)
Japanese– onamae wa nandesu ka (Watashi no namae wa des…)
Thai– kun chêu a-rai ? (pŏm chêu… for female) (dì-chăn chêu… for male).
