15 Things to Never Say in a Foreign Language (Unless You Know the Context)
Mastering foreign languages is laudable. It’s a way to make enriching connections, but sometimes it can lead to blunders. Certain phrases or words translate differently when spoken in a different language and unfortunately, they can come off as offensive and rude even though the intent was purely innocent. It is important to understand cultural context when learning any language.
The following are phrases widely used in English but can cause misunderstandings when translated and used in other cultural settings. Simplicity and politeness are your best friends when in doubt.
“Can I Join You?”
This may seem like a nice question in the U.S., but in many cultures, especially in countries such as Japan or Finland, sitting too close to others can feel intrusive. Instead, it’s better to wait for an invitation or start with a polite conversation to see if the person would be okay with you joining them.
“Are You Married?”
In the US this can be small talk but in many parts of the world, personal questions like this are private. In France or Korea, for instance, such inquiries by someone you just met can interpreted as prying and improper. Keep the topics safe by sticking to interests or the weather, so you don’t cross boundaries.
“That’s a Piece of Cake!”
An English Idiom could be confusing or taken too literally abroad. According to a study, idiomatic expressions are one of the top categories of phrases that can be translated wrong. Say what you mean instead, such as, “That’s easy,” so everything stays clear.
“My Friend Bob Is Silly”
Sarcasm is a minefield in a foreign language. In many circles, just calling your friend ‘silly’ would be considered very rude whereas it would be fairly commonplace in English between friends. Humor is very different between cultures and sarcasm isn’t universally appreciated or recognized.
“No Worries!”
In English-speaking countries this casual reassurance works, but sometimes non-native speakers might find this puzzling, taking words literally. Cross-cultural communication experts advise against using phrases that suggest there were worries from the outset which can be confusing. Instead, you can say ‘It’s okay’ or ‘That’s alright’.
“I’m Stuffed”
In the U.S., saying this after a meal may seem to communicate polite satisfaction but in some places, such as the Middle East, they might understand you to be saying that you are uncomfortably full, which could mean the host overfed you — a cultural faux pas. Complimenting the food, and leaving it at that, is more polite.
“He’s a Pain in the Neck”
Idioms, once again, lead to comical or awkward misunderstandings. In some languages this could be taken quite literally, leaving others confused as to why someone is physically hurting your neck. It can be clearer to describe your feelings towards someone without idioms, “He’s annoying,” etc.
“You Look Tired”
In the U.S. this could be a concern, but to say this to someone in Colombia or South Korea could be interpreted as saying they look bad or unwell, which isn’t polite. If you’re concerned, a “How are you?” will do.
“It Cost Me an Arm and a Leg, but I Got It”
One of the English idioms that refers to something very expensive and confuses non English speakers who can take it literally. Instead of confusing people, you should be direct about the cost or just say, ‘It was very expensive.’
“Let’s Get Down to Business”
A common occurrence in American professional settings is to get straight to the point in conversations about business, but in other countries (China or Brazil, for example), business discussions begin with relationship building and small talk. It can seem rude and abrupt jumping straight to the point.
Pushing Through a Crowd, “Excuse Me”
In crowded countries like India, or Egypt, where personal space in public is often minimal, if you say “excuse me” and gently push through, you may be ignored. Local norms like a gentle hand gesture or following what others are doing might be more effective.
“Just a Second”
This can mean a real hurry in fast paced New York, but in more relaxed cultures, such as the Caribbean, time is more fluid. It comes across as rushed and impolite saying, ‘Just a second.'” It’s a virtue to be patient, and a simple ‘Please, one moment’, with a smile, goes a long way.
“Can I Have Some Coffee?”
This can seem very demanding in many languages and cultures where politeness and indirectness are valued, such as Japan and the United Kingdom. A simple rephrase like, “Could I please get some coffee?” is more courteous and will likely be better received.
“What Do You Do?”
Americans tend to define people by their careers, so asking this right off the bat can come off as shallow in much of the world where the work isn’t the primary component of one’s identity. In these contexts, it is good to discuss other things before talking about a person’s profession.
Saying “Cheers!” Without Knowing the Local Toasting Culture.
In countries with particular toasting traditions, such as Germany or South Korea, saying ‘Cheers!’ instead of following local customs can seem ignorant or disrespectful. A respectful way to join in is to observe or ask first about appropriate toasting behavior.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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