You might think that native English speakers are the best at speaking the English language. But some experts believe that when it comes to successfully communicating in English, non-native English speakers are actually better at it.
"Often you have a room full of people from different countries communicating in English and all understanding each other. And then suddenly the American or British person walks into the room and nobody can understand them," Chia Suan Chong, a UK-based communications culture expert, told the BBC.
Chong said that happens because non-native speakers communicate more carefully. "English speakers, on the other hand, often talk too fast, use jokes, slang (俚语) and make references (引用材料) to their country that others might not understand," Chong said.
It is something that I keep in mind when talking to my Chinese friends. I am careful to speak slowly and use words I know they will understand. Sometimes we confuse each other though. Once I told my friend "no dramas", which means "no problem". She thought I was calling her a drama queen, though, and got upset!
But don't worry. Experts say that it is the native speaker's fault if they can't understand you, not yours! "English speakers with no other language often don't know how to speak English internationally," said English language teacher Dale.
The best way to avoid any trouble might be to ask for some patience. If you find it difficult to understand an English speaker, don't be afraid to ask them to slow down and speak clearly.
a. they are poor at communication b. they don't like foreigners
c. they talk too fast d. they use jokes and slang
e. they make references to their country
