Cultural Language Differences

Learning the German language has many advantages especially if you’re a foreigner taking a walk down German streets. There’s one fact that you need to realize too. Although learning the language could give you numerous praises and benefits, you have to be careful in using it as well.

Making conversation

Our nationalities differ. If there’s anything you’re accustomed to doing in you’re own country, think twice before you attempt in doing it in another nation. If you visit Germany or get into a conversation with a German speaking person, an important point you need to remember is the way how you carry a conversation.

Formal or informal?

Don’t ever forget that the German language has a distinction between formal and informal conversation. If you’re unsure how to respond to the German speaking person you’re talking to, better stick to the rules of the language. Another thing is that you may find easy to learn and remember the basics of the language (greetings, common phrases) but in any way, do not get confused with the response you’re going to get. You’re not in your own country anymore so expect changes from the people around.

Shopping in German

Shopping in Germany can be exciting; what with your skill to talk to the sales person in German. But don’t get offended if German staff just doesn’t warm up to you; it’s not being rude or anything so just move on with your German adventures.

Also, remember that Germans appreciate it more if you can talk to them in their own language. Putting all your efforts and hard work in learning the language wouldn’t be as rewarding as when you start to put it to test with a native German speaker.

But if you think you can’t handle it any longer and you feel the need to express what you want to say in pure English, you can always turn to someone and say “Sprechen Sie Englisch?" (SHPREKH-en zee ENG-lish), which means "Do you speak English?" and you’ll surely get the response you need.