Barriers to Oral Communication

Front

What is a common problem with oral communication compared to written communication?

Back

Oral communication usually presents more problems than written communication.

Front

Why might non-native English speakers struggle with pronunciation?

Back

They may have difficulty distinguishing between similar English sounds, such as 'v' and 'w'.

Front

How do Russian speakers' tones affect their English communication?

Back

They speak in flat, level tones, which may lead non-Russian listeners to assume they are bored or rude.

Front

What is a characteristic of Middle Eastern speakers in terms of volume?

Back

They tend to speak more loudly than Westerners, which may be mistakenly interpreted as being more emotional.

Front

How do Japanese speakers typically communicate in terms of volume?

Back

They are soft-spoken, which implies politeness or humility to Western listeners.

Front

What is an example of an idiomatic expression that could cause confusion in cross-cultural communication?

Back

The expression 'does not cut the mustard' may not be understood by non-native speakers.

Front

What misunderstanding occurred when a German woman was asked for more bread?

Back

She interpreted 'thank you' as a polite refusal, not as an acceptance of more bread.

Front

What is one guideline for speaking to someone who speaks English as a second language?

Back

Try to eliminate noise.

Front

What should you look for when communicating with someone who speaks English as a second language?

Back

Look for feedback.

Front

What should you do if the other person seems confused?

Back

Rephrase your sentence when necessary.