Wide vocabulary, accurate grammar and clear pronunciation are all important when learning English, but we mustn’t forget the importance of cultural awareness and natural communication. Some words and phrases, even though they make sense, might not be appropriate culturally.
Bahasa Indonesia is a very different language to English, structurally and culturally and there are a few common phrases that often get carried into English, even by high level speakers of English.
Here are a few of the most common cultural language mistakes:
5.
A: You should do it like this.
B: I know I know.
Responding to an answer by repeating a word or phrase very quickly, especially ‘I know, I know’, ‘yeah yeah yeah’ or ‘ok ok ok’, can sound a bit rude and impatient. Again, try something a bit softer and longer.
A: You should do it like this.
B: Oh ok, got it, thanks.
6.
A: Can you help me? What does this mean?
B: Sure, it means…
A: But, somebody told me it actually means…
When responding to someone, avoid immediately saying ‘but’, as it sounds like you disagree or have chosen not to acknowledge what they have said.
A: Can you help me? What does this mean?
B: Sure, it means…
A: Ok, I see, thanks. Somebody told me it actually means…is that right?
7.
A: What do you usually do on the weekend?
B: I like to go swimming, it helps me release my pressure.
“Release pressure” is an expression translated directly from Chinese to English and is not a collocation that is used in English, so it sounds a bit unnatural.
A: What do you usually do on the weekend?
B: I like to go swimming, I find it really relaxing.
8.
Man A: Wow, you look so handsome!
Man B: …
In English, we don’t always use ‘handsome’ in the same way we use 帥 in Chinese. If you want to complement a man on his appearance, it’s a bit more natural to say something like ‘nice outfit/ you look great/ nice shirt etc…)
Man A: Nice shirt!/ Wow, looking good!
Man B: Oh, thanks very much!
Source: http://www.britishcouncil.org.tw/en/english/adults/tips/cultural-awarness-2