How Italians Respond To New Language Learners

Dina000

Dina000

Community Member
Feb 19, 2015
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How do Italians respond to people trying to learn their language? I've noticed that some cultures are very encouraging and helpful when they hear people attempting to speak their language, while other cultures can be more unhelpful and be happy to allow a foreigner to struggle.

How do you feel Italians respond when they hear a foreigner attempting to communicate in Italian?
 
I would say that it all depends on the individual. As in every other part of the world, sometimes you meet people who absolutely adore you trying to speak in their language, no matter how many mistakes you make, while at other times you might encounter folks who pretend not to understand you. In my experience, most Italians are pleased when you try and speak in their language. They will encourage you and invite you to learn more about their customs and culture.
 
I've found that in France or Italy people would rather just switch to English which they know well instead of struggling through it. While some may appreciate the gesture if they have time or are a patient person, most I've found will just switch to English.
 
I don't know. I have never introduced myself to an Italian as a new learner of the Italian language. The ones I had a chance to meet have their own agenda, and they were really good at presentation. Very convincing in explaining their ideas and their projects, and all I had to do was shut up and watch them in action. Plus, I think they had translators around for the meetings. But they were really knowing of the food that they serve, though, so I was able to avoid the ones that might give me upset stomach, and I really appreciated that sharing of tacit knowledge.
 
Dina000 said:
How do Italians respond to people trying to learn their language? I've noticed that some cultures are very encouraging and helpful when they hear people attempting to speak their language, while other cultures can be more unhelpful and be happy to allow a foreigner to struggle.

How do you feel Italians respond when they hear a foreigner attempting to communicate in Italian?
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I have only ever encountered two Italians while learning and they were both wonderfully helpful. I was in the line at the supermarket listening to my access Italian CD and the man tapped me on the shoulder and asked me how far along I was and how I was doing, we then had a lovely mini conversation about how I was. I could not believe how friendly he was and I really appreciated it and still do to this day!
 
I have heard that Europeans prefer to hear their own language rather than English, because American are not so popular in many countries. I think it does depend on the individual. Kind and friendly people will always be encouraging and helpful. Impatient people will probably cut you off or switch to English. People who don' speak any other language at all will probably like the fact that you are trying.
 
I love the Italian language and that accent is priceless to listen to. Yes, some cultures don't really embrace others who try to speak their language but you need to the language of all countries that you intend on visiting. Just learning the basic can get you far as well. Italians are a bit cocky and will embarrass you, but that depends on the person you're interacting with.
 
An Italian friend of mine did try and teach me some basic Italian and seemed to appreciate that i was making the effort. I used to work with quite a few Italians who were always keen to talk about any aspect of their home nation and educate me, they are always happy if you show an interest.

The Italians seem to be very well educated when it comes to languages and seem to have a natural ability. My friend Francesco could speak four languages fluently, it puts us English to shame really.
 
Most Italians are receptive, especially if you are in a restaurant or shop. I've encountered a few that weren't so helpful, but it was in a rural place where they rarely saw people from outside the village. A few basic phrases always helps and knowing what key words mean and they are generally understanding when you make up a sentence!
 
I find that visiting a country as a tourist, I might try and learn the odd word here and there but I certainly wouldn't try and have a dull blown conversation, that would be a little embarrassing for everybody.
I do think though that if you move to a country to live, I think you should at least make the effort to try and learn the language.
 
The people I've encountered were pretty surprised to find out that I'm actually interested in their country so much that I've even started to learn their language. They also encouraged me to continue on talking in Italian even with the huge mistakes instead of switching into English.
 
I have never tried talking to any Italians yet. I will need to build up a little more confidence before I am willing to communicate in Italian. I am not ready yet, but I do hope they will respond well at my efforts.
 
I really do think it's an individualistic thing. Some people would probably be impressed/flattered that you were attempting to learn and speak their language -- whereas others might just prefer to speak English. I find since a lot of European countries learn English as part of their school curriculum from an early age, they're often at basically native level English speaker standards - so it can be easier just communicating in English a lot of the time.
 
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