10 Things Bilingual People Know As Told By The Office | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Student Life

10 Things Bilingual People Know As Told By The Office

No, I wasn't talking about you, I promise.

12
10 Things Bilingual People Know As Told By The Office
google

Bilingual; an adjective to describe those that can speak two languages with ease, comparative to that of a native speaker. There are so many different languages in the world and being bilingual is becoming so common with globalization, immigration and the internet. I grew up speaking two languages, one at home (Tamil) and one at school (English). Because of that, I quickly became proudly bilingual. Now that I have grown up, I keep learning new languages and hope to one day be multilingual. I know I'm not the only one that speaks more than one language and I'm definitely not the only one that understands what it's like being bilingual. So, here are ten things that bilingual people do and know, as told by 'The Office.'


1. Have secret conversations

Anytime you don't want people around you to know what is happening in your conversation, you speak a different language. Being bilingual is especially helpful when you see somebody attractive there is an instant switch in languages so you and your friends can make googly eyes (don't lie to me, everyone has done this). This also applies to eavesdropping on other conversations you can understand (yes, this an invasion of privacy but you just happened to hear what they were talking about. oops?)


2. "How do you say ________ in your language?"

As much as I love teaching others my native language, this can get pretty annoying. Especially when all anyone wants to learn are swear words. And please stop calling me ''exotic'', I'm not a fruit.


3. You constantly switch languages mid-sentence

This is such an issue because most of the time it's subconscious and absolutely an accident. By the time you're done with the story you were telling, everyone around you just looks confused. Not only do you speak two languages in the same sentence, sometimes you are thinking in two languages. Or even worse, speaking one language and thinking in another.


4. Having multiple keyboards on your phone.

This is the worst especially when you are talking to three different people at once, all in different languages. How am I supposed to switch between all these keyboards?! And don't get me started on autocorrect. I know what I'm saying, it might not be English, but it's right. Stop changing 'vannakkam' to 'vandalism' I'm just trying to say hi! I should just stop learning languages, maybe life would be easier.


5. You get to learn about a different culture

A language is an integral part of many cultures and learning a new one means you also get to learn about new cultures. How fun is that?!


6. Speaking an expressive language

People constantly ask you if you're okay or if you're mad. No, I wasn't fighting with anyone, we were just talking about food.


7. Getting yelled at in another language

If you grew up speaking a different language at home, you know that getting yelled at (or yelling at others) in your native tongue means it is serious.


8. Not everything translates correctly


I really want to tell you the joke, but honestly it's not funny in English. Giving advice? Don't directly translate expressions or proverbs, you'll just sound crazy. Subtitles do you no justice. Nope, none of that sounds right. That word just doesn't have the same meaning in English, you can't understand it unless you speak it.


9. Meeting people who speak the same language

It's so cool when you meet more people that speak the same language as you. Even if they aren't as fluent, are not native speakers or are just learning, you are just so proud and excited that they are learning. Being fluent like you or a native speaker just makes it even better. Instant connection with new friends that can understand you? Score.

10. Bragging rights


Let's be honest, being able to speak more than one language is cool, really freaking cool. Embrace it and chat away!

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

13344
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
college

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

5858
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

4348
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

3833
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments