Ask a Question

(Create a thread)
Go Back   Spanish language learning forums > Teaching & Learning > Culture


Trying Out My New Language in Public

 

Questions about culture and cultural differences between countries and languages.


Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old December 28, 2015, 01:42 PM
protojoe protojoe is offline
Opal
 
Join Date: Dec 2015
Posts: 6
protojoe is on a distinguished road
Trying Out My New Language in Public

First, may I say that the "sticky" threads on this forum are pretty amazing. As are some of the very comprehensive posts and responses to questions. Those of you that take the time to respond to questions in that way are very much appreciated.

I live and work around people who have Spanish as their native language. I would like to attempt to converse with them (people I don't know personally) in Spanish but don't want to be rude or offensive.

First, would it be offensive if I tried to speak to them in Spanish when they are obviously very fluent in English? If so, how is the best way to approach them? I was thinking of something like (in English) "Pardon, would you mind if I tried to speak with you in Spanish?"

Thanks,

Joe
Reply With Quote
   
Get rid of these ads by registering for a free Tomísimo account.
  #2  
Old December 28, 2015, 03:07 PM
Rusty's Avatar
Rusty Rusty is offline
Señor Speedy
 
Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: USA
Posts: 11,299
Native Language: American English
Rusty has a spectacular aura aboutRusty has a spectacular aura about
I don't think anyone would be offended if you wanted to speak to them in Spanish, but if you don't know them, you need to introduce yourself first. This introductory conversation should be held in English, since they are very comfortable using English.

After they know who you are, you can add that you're very interested in trying to learn Spanish and would appreciate the opportunity to speak to them in their native tongue.
(You can use the sentence you proposed, without the interjection.)

If they are very fluent in English, some will allow occasional questions in Spanish, but will not necessarily respond in Spanish. If this happens, you won't get the ear training you need and may want to seek out other individuals that are more accommodating.

If they are willing to take the time to engage in Spanish conversation, you should realize that most native speakers will not correct your Spanish unless you specifically ask for correction. Even then, most will tire of making corrections all the time.
Some will not be willing to correct your mistakes. If you'd like that, seek out someone that would be more accommodating.

If you find someone that will correct your mistakes, they will most likely not know why things are said the way they are. For those types of questions, I suggest you use these forums.

Happy hunting (for the right mix of Hispanic friends and acquaintances)!
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old December 28, 2015, 05:51 PM
poli's Avatar
poli poli is offline
rule 1: gravity
 
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: In and around New York
Posts: 7,810
Native Language: English
poli will become famous soon enoughpoli will become famous soon enough
I think the unspoken rule is the language that is best understood between the two speakers becomes the lingua franca. A Puerto Rican friend of mine always speaks to me in English except on occasion because her English is better than my Spanish. A Peruvian friend usually converses with me in Spanish because my Spanish is better than his English. As Rusty writes, this may be overridden if you state that you have a genuine interest in learning Spanish.
__________________
Me ayuda si corrige mis errores. Gracias.
Reply With Quote
Reply

 

Link to this thread
URL: 
HTML Link: 
BB Code: 
Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Site Rules

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
In the public exam Xinfu Grammar 3 January 07, 2014 10:33 AM
'Green' public transit margarita rosa Translations 7 March 02, 2013 05:06 AM
Public Holiday ROBINDESBOIS Grammar 2 February 26, 2013 08:21 PM
Public assistance pinosilano Translations 4 December 04, 2011 11:56 AM
Different Countries' names for their public lavatories vita32 Culture 23 March 15, 2011 04:18 PM


All times are GMT -6. The time now is 10:08 AM.

Forum powered by vBulletin® Copyright ©2000 - 2024, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.

X