嘉越．飛越

Sorry, No English is a handy book for anyone who needs to frequently interact with limited-English speakers. It is also a valuable tool for those who are interested in language, culture and communication. This practical guide offers 50 concise tips that aiming to bridge the language barrier, making it an essential resource for professionals, travelers, and anyone who engages with non-native English speakers.

Although many limited-English speakers studied English in their home countries, they often struggle to communicate effectively with native English speakers. One of the reasons may be that many English words are not pronounced as they are spelled. For example, the word “rough” is pronounced “ruff”. A person who can read and understand words like “rough” may not recognize them when they hear them speaking. Similarly native English speakers may have trouble understanding a word if it is mispronounced by non-native speakers.

The same challenge applies to English slang and idioms. The author advised avoiding the use of idioms or slang when communicating with limited English speakers. “You can know what each of the individual words in an idiom means and still not understand what the phrase means.  For example, ‘piece of cake’ and ‘easy as pie’ are both idioms meaning simple or easy, but non-speakers will have no way to understand what they mean.” Other common slang examples include “chicken” which refers to a coward, and “booze” which means alcohol.

The author’s observations on cultural differences are particularly interesting, highlighting the significance of body language when communicating with limited-English speakers. He encourages readers to be mindful of their tone and body language, as these elements can profoundly influence interactions. For example, in many Asian countries, people often smile to conceal embarrassment. However, this may be misinterpreted as being disrespectful in some foreign countries. In general, the author advised readers to keep a friendly smile and remember to nod when speaking to limited -English speakers.

While the book is intended for a wide audience, its practical tips are especially beneficial for those in customer service roles. The author’s tips on interactions with limited-English speakers can help reduce communication challenges and are easy to carry out in real life.