If you recognize their language and you know a few examples, that’s great. If not, ask if the other person understands any English. English is the language of travel and business. It is likely that even in parts of the world education is not widespread, many people will still know a few words or phrases in English. [1] X Research source If that fails, try any other languages you know, even if you only understand a little bit. See if the other person shows any signs of understanding. Just a few words can make communication much easier, even if they’re not in either of your native tongues.
That said, try to keep a normal rhythm. When you slow down your speech, you may have a tendency to get into an odd, stilted rhythm and/or put emphasis on the wrong words. This can make you harder to understand. If you speak English with a strong regional accent (e. g. you live in the deep south or have a cockney accent), speaking slowly is doubly important. [3] X Research source
Shouting will only make you look foolish and may offend the person you are trying to communicate with.
Likewise, stay away from the use of idioms or figures of speech. These are expressions that, by definition, are culturally specific, and are not likely to be understood by non-English speakers. For example, don’t say something is “as easy as pie” or that you you need to “hit the sack. " These common American expressions obviously don’t have meanings that align with the literal meaning of the words. They are likely to seem bizarre and perplexing to non-native English speakers. [5] X Research source
Avoid confusing structures, such as questions asked in the negative. Instead of saying: “You don’t have any idea what I mean, do you?” ask “Do you understand what I mean?"[7] X Research source
For example, if you are trying to ask where you can buy some pain medication, stick with that term, don’t vary your words and say “aspirin” or “painkillers” or some other synonym a moment later, at least not if the person you are talking to seemed to understand the first term. [8] X Research source
Similarly, be on lookout for signals that she or he does not understand you, such a scrunched brow or the universal “huh?"[9] X Research source
This also eliminates problems that might come about because of pronunciation issues, especially if you have a strong accent. Carrying a small notepad and pen for this purpose when you travel is a good idea. [11] X Research source
Do not laugh at the person, roll your eyes, or anything else that you wouldn’t do in polite conversation with someone who does speak your language. [12] X Research source
While a dictionary will give you a greater variety of words to choose from, a phrase book will contain useful sentences with the verbs already conjugated correctly. This can make you easier for others to understand. Small dictionary/phrasebook combinations are available for travelers via your local bookstore or online. Some travel guidebooks including a section of common phrases as well. [13] X Research source
Using your hands to indicate size, location, and so on can be very helpful. Be careful, not all gestures are universal. Some common gestures in America have very different meanings in other places. For example, the common sign for “ok” or “perfect” made by touching the tips of your thumb and forefinger is an offensive gesture in Greece and Turkey. So keep it simple!
For example, if you are trying to find a good place to eat, you might act out the motion taking some bites with a fork, then rub your belly and make a contented sound, such as “Mmmmm. "
You can pass the pad off to the other person and let them respond using a picture too, if that helps.
Some of these apps are free. It’s a good idea to download one before going on a trip somewhere where English isn’t spoken.
