Why is Russian speech harsh to Americans?
'17.11.2020'
Source: "Made in USA" on "Yandex.Zen"
In a conversation with Americans, the speech of a Russian person can sound rude. But the point is not that we want to offend or communicate with disdain. It's just that our language and mentality itself are built differently, the author explains. “Made in USA” on “Yandex.Zen”.
Rough pronunciation
Our phonetic apparatus is structured differently, and Russians cannot be soft in the pronunciation of certain sounds. In addition, Americans open their mouths wide in conversation, which is also not typical there. So it is not surprising that the Russian speech in American will sound rude. But this is actually just the tip of the iceberg.
Americans are too polite
If you talk to the Americans, you will find out that they constantly apologize for everything. For example, if a waiter comes up to our table and asks whether to bring something, we will answer “no, thank you”. And this is in the best case, because usually people say “no” or “no need” at all. And no one is offended by this.
In the US, they will apologize ten times and issue their refusal something like “thank you, now we have everything”. Therefore, our laconic “no” really sounds harsh to them.
On the subject: Not just 'no': three ways to politely say no in English
In addition, it is customary for Russians to communicate in an imperative mood, like “close the window” and the like. An American will hear this unusual, even if it is said with perfect English pronunciation.
We're too straightforward for them
Straightforwardness is encouraged in the Russian mentality. If we don't like something, then we will say so. In general, we will try to convey the information to the interlocutor as clearly and concisely as possible.
Americans, on the other hand, often do not say “no,” but “feed breakfast” or veil everything so that the interlocutor is comfortable. Therefore, the Russians can overwhelm them with their directness.
Although it should be noted that over time, Russians in the United States develop an American manner of communication.
Original column published on the blog. “Made in USA” on “Yandex.Zen”
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