Communication Breakdown

G’day Matey’s, Brett here.


I now have a new found understanding for the people in our community whose first language is not English. Who would have thought that in another English speaking country there could be such a language barrier. Even Cindy and I have an agreement in which we don’t talk to each other after 8pm due to the fact that by that stage in the day we can’t understand each other anyway. I can’t even began to imagine how difficult it must be for those people still learning the intricacies of the English language and trying to find their way in a monolingual society.


Although some may disagree, I would consider myself to have fairly good understanding of the English language. A Bachelor degree in education says that I should be able to read and write to at least a grade 7 level. Being a teacher, I have also done my fair share of public speaking. Despite this, here in Canada I find I have to repeat myself and endure blank stares on a daily basis.


This communication breakdown peaked when I visited the local tailor. After measurements were taken I began to spell my name to the lady behind the counter. "Bee... Are... Eee... Tee.. Tee" I pronounced carefully. After a few confused looks she printed my receipt. And so my alto ego, BRATT PIGGROTT was born.


Equally as strange is being complimented on your accent. "Hey are you Australian? I love your accent" What do you say to that? "Thank you, it has taken years of practice.." Anyway, they’re the ones with the accent, not me!


So next time you are talking to someone whose English is not as articulate as your own, please remember that English could be their 2nd, 3rd or 4th language, so don’t get too annoyed when you have to listen that little bit closer to their conversation. After all, how many languages do you know?