• Linguistics and Language -> Language and Culture

• 0 Comment

How do language and culture intersect in intercultural communication?

Margeret Librey

Language and culture are intimately connected in intercultural communication, affecting meaning, interpretation, and understanding in all aspects of communication. Understanding the intersection between language and culture is an essential aspect of effective intercultural communication. In this response, I will explore the ways in which language and culture intersect in intercultural communication and the challenges that arise in the process.

Firstly, language and culture are interdependent. Language is a fundamental aspect of culture and shapes our way of seeing the world. Therefore, understanding cultural norms and values is crucial to understanding the language being used. Some cultural expectations may lead to certain phrases becoming taboo or inappropriate, leading to misunderstandings. For example, in many Western countries, asking someone their age is considered acceptable, whereas, in some countries such as Japan, it is deemed to be impolite. These differences in cultural norms can lead to misunderstandings, and failing to understand these differences can cause offense.

Secondly, the language itself reflects the culture. For example, idioms are expressions that hold a deep-rooted cultural meaning, making them difficult to interpret for those outside the culture. An example of this is the expression, ‘It’s raining cats and dogs.’ For someone unfamiliar with this phrase, it can be quite confusing since the literal interpretation bears no relation to the meaning. However, for someone who is familiar with English culture, it is quite easy to understand that the phrase means it is raining heavily. Additionally, language can reveal values and attitudes within a culture. For instance, the use of the singular ‘they’ pronoun in English is becoming more prevalent. This shift shows how attitudes towards gender identity are changing, becoming more inclusive.

Thirdly, a lack of language proficiency can lead to miscommunication and misunderstanding. When individuals have different native languages, communicating can become difficult since language barriers can lead to confusion. In such cases, translation becomes necessary, leading to an increased risk of misinterpretation. Therefore, proficiency in a common language becomes an essential aspect of successful intercultural communication.

In conclusion, the intersection of language and culture in intercultural communication is intimate, and understanding this intersection is necessary for effective communication. Culture influences how people communicate, and language reflects the culture. Failure to understand the intersection of culture and language can lead to misunderstandings, offense, and problems. Proficiency in a common language becomes vital in intercultural communication since it eliminates language barriers and facilitates understanding. Therefore, as individuals, we must strive to learn more about various cultures, norms, and values to enhance intercultural communication, improve relationships, and foster mutual respect and understanding.