Adapting English for Non-Native Speakers

Personal Experience

• Speaker's background: Worked at the United Nations, frequent missions to the Middle East.
• Incident in Boston:
  • Traveled with French colleague Thiery (T).
  • Realized his English changed in a native setting, making it difficult for T to understand.
• Light bulb moment: Importance of adapting English based on the audience.

Global Context

• Non-native speakers: Majority of English speakers are non-native.
• Studies show native speakers struggle to adapt their English.
• Misunderstandings more likely when native speakers join conversations with non-native speakers.

Characteristics of the English Language

• English is initially easy but becomes complex at advanced levels.
• Differences with other languages: Most languages are difficult at the start but become easier.

Strategies for Clear Communication

Rule 1: Choose Clarity Over Eloquence

• Speak more slowly and clearly.
• Use pauses strategically.

Rule 2: Prefer Active Voice

• Easier for non-native speakers to understand.
• Example: Instead of "A decision was taken by the government," say "The government decided."

Rule 3: Affirmative vs. Negative

• Use affirmative statements when possible.
• Example: Instead of "It’s not a good idea," say "It’s a bad idea."

Rule 4: Use Simple Words

• Follow Winston Churchill's advice: "Short words are the best."
• Examples:
  • Use "begin" instead of "initiate."
  • Use "end" instead of "terminate."
• Avoid unnecessary words and redundancy.

Rule 5: Be Cautious with Contractions

• Contractions can be difficult for non-native speakers.
• Avoid negative contractions: Example: Instead of "We wouldn’t have," say "We would not have."

Rule 6: Avoid Phrasal Verbs

• Phrasal verbs can be confusing: Example: "Put down" can mean different things in different contexts.

Rule 7: Be Mindful with Idioms

• Idioms are often not understood by non-native speakers.
• Examples of confusing idioms: "Go the extra mile," "Touch base," etc.

Rule 8: Avoid Cultural/Sport References

• Not universally understood: Example: American football terms.
• Use local cultural references where possible.

Working with Interpreters

• Provide speech text in advance to interpreters.
• Establish communication and signals with interpreters.
• Refer to blog post: Lost in Translation for more tips.

Showing Respect for the Audience

• Using local language phrases shows respect.
• Example: Opening statements in Farsi during Iran mission.

Final Thoughts

• Respecting non-native speakers can enhance message delivery.
• Use English to unite rather than divide.
• Quote from Winston Churchill: "England and the US are two countries divided by a common language."