Immigrants speak the language?

[Randy]

Do you think immigrants should learn to speak the language of their new country? How well do they need to speak it?

 

[PGen98]

Yes, to an extent. At least be conversational in the language of the country you move to. You don't need to speak that language among family or friends, but when it comes to work, etc...yeah, it's needed.

 

[Smiley]

Absolutely. If they're going to live in it, they need to be able to communicate with the native population, unless they expect the natives to know or learn their language, in which case they are free to return where they came from.

 

[passenger]

Yes. I would not immigrate to Mexico or Thailand and expect them to accommodate my language.

 

[Smiley]

I can understand and excuse migrants who are fleeing from a war in their country, like the Ukrainians fleeing from the Russian invasion to whichever country will have them, or, say, political migrants who are forced to leave their country to save themselves from political persecution, but once a foreign country becomes your home, do yourself a favor and start learning the host's native language, especially if you're planning on looking for a job.

I find it annoying when tourists prowl the foreign lands, but don't know so much as a word of native languages. English is regarded as world's universal language, but not everyone speaks it, especially outside the US and Europe, so it's generally a good idea to at least try to pick up a few words and phrases of the country you're going to.

 

[MamaFrankie]

Yes, it's a mark of respect. That also applies to native English speakers wishing to live abroad.

 

[Nebulous]

I feel that their life is going to be very difficult if they don't at least try to learn basic words to get them through daily life.

 

[MrDawn]

Yeah. It would sure help their chances.