When you are in a foreign country do you find it polite or rude when someone tries to speak your language?

Question

I have a lot of foreign friends and I know the basics if many languages, and I would like to try to speak their native language with them, but I often get mixed reactions.

Some of my friends look embarrassed when I ask then questions in their language and try to change subjects while others think its funny and continue.

I have heard that most foreigners find it offensive when you do that b/c it is demeaning, and it implies that they wouldn't have been able to understand you.
But idc I just don't want to annoy anyone...


If you are a foreigner, or ever have been I would like your opinion pleeeeeeze :)

Answer 1

When I went to Italy, people were VERY willing to speak English to me. I found their hospitality really flattering, but to practice my Italian, sometimes I would talk to them in Italian even if they spoke in English. When foreigners come to my country, I find it nice when they try a few words in English. Even though this is nice, if I can be of any help talking to them in their native tongue, I try as well! I think it's rude to go somewhere and INSIST someone speak your language.

Answer 2

I used to go to Amsterdam quite a bit. Really, quite a lot. So I studied Dutch for three years. The Dutch people are flattered that you go to the trouble to learn such a difficult language, but after about 5 minutes they discreetly steer the conversation back to English. They all speak English beautifully.

Answer 3

Of course it isn't rude.



Maybe you speak their languages badly, and they can't understand you,but are too polite to say that. Or you're so bad at it, they think you're making fun of them.



What you could try is saying that you would love to practice [their language] with them, and get some pointers, as you'd like to learn it better. If you explain WHY you're trying to speak their language, I can't imagine why they'd find that rude.



Most people like to teach someone who wants to learn, as long as it doesn't become burdensome.

Answer 4

I find it useful because my foreign language skills aren't great, I also appreciate them trying. I do try to speak their language too if I can as it's their country, not mine.

Answer 5

I would say tht it's polite cos ur trying to speak to them and its difficult for u cos it's hard and they should understand that ur trying to be polite. But it can be rude as well when ur just making fun of them like people say ni Hao r whatever and think its Chinese. I really hate tht since I'm Chinese and that person really stupid. Anyways just don't make it sound as if its making fun of them. R just tell them if they understand English anyways

Answer 6

Learn to say "Excuse me, do you speak English?" in the native tongue of wherever you travel. If they respond "no", then give their language your best shot.

Answer 7

When I traveled, my favorite thing was when I tried to speak their local language, and they replied in my language.

Answer 8

I find it polite if someone tries to talk to me in my language. It makes me happy to know that they know my country and my identity.

Answer 9

i try not to laf but its always funny!