Thread 214506932

Language learning is great for lonely people with autism or just people who are socially awkward in general yet still enjoy interacting with others.

When you speak a foreign language, people are a lot more forgiving. You don't have to worry too much about nuance or a deeper meaning behind what you're saying. You can be really just be straightforward without feeling awkward about it, since merely the ability to express yourself is an achievement. It's easy to use humor too, just throw in some slang you learned. Jokes that would be considered cringe in your native language are often hilarious when translated because even if they don't make sense, listeners will usually try to find humor in it anyway. Once you get past the advanced stage this effect does wane a little, but then you can always move on to another language.

This has been my experience studying Thai, Khmer, and Burmese

thank you chatgpt

>This has been my experience studying Thai
KEK

>>214506932 (OP)
Depending on the language. I don't think German or French speaking countries behave like that. That said even when you speak German or French, you still feel more free from the your native language values. Indeed using a foreign language allows you to express yourself in a different way you usually do.

Yeah and then you become fluent and everybody realizes that you're an ill freak now that there's no layer of communication issues to mask it

>>214508669
I think there's definitely a stereotype about that but in practice I think most people are kind when they realize you're a genuine learner and not some criminal from Somalia

>>214510232
Being socially awkward isn't exactly weird freak territory

>>214511583
yes, while there's a kernel of truth in the stereotype let's not overemphasize the degree. My point is it depends.

E.g. in many Spanish speaking countries people aren't much impressed by foreigners, who can speak Spanish. Many believe Spanish is an easy language to learn and they know it's popular language choice among foreigner. But some do appreciate. Some know that Spanish has difficulties. Some have say nephew living in the US, who doesn't speak any. Anyway, people from LatAm and Spain and very social, would compliment you anyway. And you reap the direct benefit of being able to use the language anyway.

Here's the catch, there are languages, for speaking which you're appreciated and they are also beneficial, speaking them opens closed to you before doors. Which languages are these depends on who you are, your needs.

>>214511583
I've heard in Germany people tend to correct foreigners, switch to English at first trouble speaking, etc. Especially in the North West. Maybe it's not universal experience and we know why it happens. Anyway you wouldn't be able to open up like OP said.