I Hate Being Praised for Language-Skills

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In a world where multilingualism is often celebrated, the experience of being praised for speaking less commonly learned languages can feel like a double-edged sword. The author, having studied Arabic and Mandarin, finds themselves in a curious position: while their basic language skills elicit admiration and sometimes even free treats, there’s an unsettling aftertaste. This praise feels undeserved, a reward for what should be a baseline expectation, especially among those with access to quality language education. The author grapples with the tension between appreciating the excitement that comes from speaking another’s language and feeling patronized by the low standards surrounding language proficiency in American culture. They seek to express this frustration, wondering if others share similar feelings about the complexities of language learning and cultural engagement.

I've had the privilege of studying less commonly learned languages among white Americans, namely Arabic and Mandarin. I think I can speak both decently enough to get by, and I do enjoy using them, though I've noticed that even when I say very basic things, sometimes native speakers will be impressed. On a couple of occasions, I've gotten free things and food just for being able to speak the basics of somebody's language.

Of course, it's nice to receive gifts, though I always feel a bit yucky after, because it feels like I'm being rewarded for engaging in something that was only made possible through the privilege of going to a college with strong language programs. On the same hand, I do get that it's exciting when somebody knows your language when it's rare to see white people speak it.

I'm not entirely sure how to express my frustration, though I think it has something to do with the standards Americans have when it comes to language, which are understandably low. I do firmly believe that learning your neighbors' language should be an obligation, especially for those who have the means to do so, though now I feel like I'm blaming those whose languages have been trampled over by the romantics for my frustration. It's kind of like I feel like I'm being praised for doing the bare minimum, which I get is rarer in this case, but it feels maybe patronizing? I'm really not sure, but this has been on my mind for a while.

Idk exactly where I am with this, but just wanted to see if anybody else had a similar experience.

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#language evolution#philosophy of language#humor in language#creative language use#Language Skills#Arabic#Mandarin#Privilege#Learning Languages#Native Speakers#Language Programs#Obligation to Learn#Linguistic Privilege#White Americans#Language Standards#Patronizing Behavior#Language Appreciation#Cultural Engagement#Basic Conversational Skills#Community Interaction