Moving to a new country can be scary. Especially if you don’t speak the local language.
First of all, let me reassure you. You have one thing going for you: you speak English. You will find that, in today’s world, a lot of people speak English, especially in large cities. However, depending on the country you live in and how far you are from large cities, you might find yourself surrounded by people who speak a completely different language and wonder how you’ll ever make yourself understood.
It is possible to thrive in a country where you don’t speak the language. Our incredible OUTCAN community is proof of that. Here are some tips that might make it easier:
1. Use a translator on your phone
These days, we all carry smartphones with us and, unless we are deep in the countryside where there is no reception, we have access to Internet wherever we go. That means that, if you find yourself in a situation where you have to communicate with someone in a language you know nothing about, you can use a translator on your phone. Google translate is always a good option or there are a number of apps you can download to help you. Some of these have options to say the translation out loud so you could type a phrase, translate it, and then play it for your interlocutor. Translators are not perfect but they should help you navigate almost any situation.
2. Learn simple, everyday phrases
When you first move to a non-English speaking country, you’ll find that everyday tasks become more challenging. Going grocery shopping. Asking for directions. Going to a restaurant. These things can be difficult if you don’t speak the local language.
At first, you’ll want to focus on learning a few easy words and phrases to help you get around. “Hello”, “Thank you”, and “Goodbye” are a great place to start. You might then move on to numbers and everyday items like bread or coffee. A few sentences such as “Can I get …” or “I’m sorry, I don’t understand” will also come in handy.
While you are out and about, if you find yourself stuck while trying to say something, write it down or make a mental note of it. This is a phrase you will probably find yourself needing again so you can focus on learning it for the next situation.
3. Take a course
If you know you will remain in a country for a significant amount of time, you might want to commit to truly learning the language. Even if you aren’t in that country for that long, learning the language will make your experience richer and more comfortable.
Taking a course in your local language is one of the most efficient ways of learning the language. It’s also a great way to meet other people, especially if you’ve just moved and are looking for friends. Check with MFS about what programs are available to help you to learn your host language.
4. Don’t be shy
When you don’t speak the language, it’s easy to feel shy or embarrassed to talk. You might worry that your accent is bad or that you won’t be able to find the right words.
You might also be tempted to avoid interacting or trying to become friends with local people, worried about the language barrier.
You will find that most people are patient with people who make the effort to learn their language. They will be happy to help you and to repeat themselves or talk slower to make sure you understand.
Having conversations with native speakers is one of the best ways to pick up a language. So don’t be shy. Reach out to people. Join a local club and try your hand at communicating in your new language.
Being friends with locals will make your OUTCAN experience richer and more rewarding.
5. Watch TV in the local language
Another great way to pick up a language is to consume media in that language. There are different ways to do so.
When you’re in your car or at home, you could listen to a local radio station. You might not understand anything at first but slowly, you will pick up words or expressions and you might start to make sense of what is being said.
If you have some movies or books or TV shows that you know by heart, you could attempt to watch or read the version in the local language. Because you already know what the story is, you’ll be able to follow and pick up words and sentences. A great way to make this work for you is to look up specific words as you encounter them and thereby increase your vocabulary.
You could also watch new movies and TV shows in the local language but with English subtitles. That will allow your ear to get used to how the language sounds and how people speak and pick up on some words.
Your OUTCAN experience might be your first time living in a country where you don’t speak the language and it may feel like you will never be comfortable communicating in your new home.
However, many people go through this experience and thrive in their new countries. You can too. There are a number of things you can do to facilitate communications including using a translator app on your phone, learning everyday phrases, taking a course, reaching out to people, and consuming media in that language.
Before you know it, trips to the supermarket will be a breeze, you’ll be able to read menus in restaurants, and you’ll be friends with all of your neighbours.