Several research studies have confirmed that learning a new language improves brain efficiency. Indeed, the practice of acquiring an additional lexicon increases the density of gray matter a person has packed in their head. However, regardless of the benefits learning a new language may bring, there is a world of difference between a person that speaks Spanish as a native and a person that speaks Spanish with mistakes and a foreign accent. Here, we describe a few of the advantages and disadvantages of
speaking Spanish as a foreigner in different scenarios.
- Spanish for business: Speaking Spanish like a native, when it is not your mother tongue, is a sign of mental dexterity and character. It shows that you have not only taken time to learn the different rules of grammar in the language, but you have also taken it a step further by perfecting the little details in pronunciation. Having the perseverance to achieve this gives you a leg up when entering any situation in the business world. .
- Spanish for travelling: Being a tourist in a foreign country means you are not well acquainted with your surroundings, putting you in a vulnerable position. As much as we wish the world was populated with well-intentioned individuals, the reality is that it isn’t. Speaking Spanish with a foreign accent or with mistakes may attract the attention of people whose intentions are not completely honorable. These people are experts in taking advantage of the vulnerability foreigners exude. Removing the foreign accent and mistakes removes this vulnerability and sets you on equal grounds with the locals.
- Spanish for social relationships: While having a friend with a foreign accent is a blessing, having a foreign friend with a native accent is a virtue. Finding people that have learned a foreign language to the extent of speaking it as a native seldom occurs. Reaching this level of expertise shows that this person knows what it takes to reach excellence in an area of human intelligence. Interacting with a person like this is a blessing and a virtue.
To reach the level of perfection of a native speaker in Spanish, several hours of study and practice are required. A person may learn to speak Spanish and practice it constantly with their peers, but the problem surfaces when feedback is rarely prescribed. Feedback is crucial to achieving impeccable language skills. We are Platica. Platica is a tool used by top high schools and Ivy League university students to help them reach the language excellence they aspire to achieve. Platica allows students to practice Spanish online on a convenient schedule in an interesting and engaging context. To view the conversation packages we offer, click here. Try us out today!