
Since I was born in Korea, I have been learning English. I was especially good at reading, listening and writing(?.. not sure). However, like most Koreans, I repect people who can speak English fluently. But, what does 'fluently' really mean?it means the way it sounds like announcers in ABC broadcasting speak? I think so. Koreans are so obsessed with how fluent English learner can speak. However, in the U.S where there are a lot of native English speakers, fluency is not as important.
People from all over the world come to the U.S, bringing with them different accents and cultures. So, what matters more is how people in the U.S communicate effectively?
For example, if you are working at a company where everyone speaks English and your boss asks you, "Do you understand it?" you may be tempted to say "Yes, I understand it", although you don't. This is a common way for Asians to show respect for others and protect their reputation. However, Americans are likely to check if you really understand something in business setting, where a small mistake can lead to big problems. That is why you often hear Americans ask, "Are we on the same page?", This means "Do we agree on what we're doing?". In business world, a small mistake would be able to make a problem that would be the reason why you should be fired when it really happens.
Person 1: Hey, have you ever thought about what it means to speak English fluently?
Person 2: Not really. I guess I just assumed it meant speaking English without any mistakes.
Person 1: Well, I'm not sure that's entirely true. I mean, everyone makes mistakes when they speak, even native speakers. I think fluency is more about being able to communicate effectively in English.
Person 2: What do you mean?
Person 1: Well, for example, if you're working in the US and your boss asks you, "Do you understand?" you might be tempted to say yes even if you don't, just to save face. But in the US, it's more important to be honest and say, "No, I don't understand." That way, your boss can explain things to you more clearly.
Person 2: I see. So it's not just about speaking English perfectly, it's also about being able to communicate effectively with others.
Person 1: Exactly. And that's why I think fluency is more about confidence than anything else. If you're confident in your ability to speak English, even if you make mistakes, people will be more likely to understand you and communicate with you.
Person 2: That makes a lot of sense. Thanks for the insight!
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