The Importance of Proper English in a New Country: A Personal Perspective

As a Google SEOer with a background in teaching English, I often find myself advocating for proper English usage, especially in countries like the United States. This abundance of interest stems from my professional role, but more importantly, it is driven by a desire to ensure my students succeed and are respected in their new environment. If someone speaks English poorly, they risk being ridiculed or treated unfairly, whereas smooth communication can earn them the respect they deserve. This perspective is not universally accepted, as I will illustrate through the example of immigration and citizenship in the U.S.

The Citizenship Test: A Language Barrier

When immigrants apply for citizenship in the U.S., they must pass a test that includes taking an oath and answering questions such as the number of states in America, or the name of the current president. This test, conducted in English, underscores the importance of language fluency. If you are an immigrant in the U.S., regardless of your nationality, you are expected to speak English to a certain proficiency level to become a citizen. This expectation is based on the belief that language proficiency is a fundamental aspect of cultural integration and social participation.

Language Proficiency and Personal Status

The level of language proficiency one should strive for also depends on their personal status. For tourists, a little bit of language proficiency is often seen as just as endearing as it is useful. Unlike immigrants, tourists are generally given a certain level of benevolence and patience when it comes to their language skills. However, this leniency degenerates as one transitions into having a residence status similar to a Green Card holder. In such cases, higher standards are expected, and for many, it is a testament to respect and courtesy to the host culture.

Speaking Properly: A Professional Obligation

For those seeking citizenship, the expectation is even higher. It is reasonable to expect a person to express themselves accurately and quickly, particularly in their social and work environments. This makes sense as it reflects a person's ability to function and communicate effectively in a new country. It is the same expectation that children face as they grow up and take on greater responsibilities. Therefore, it is only fair to expect the same level of proficiency from adults who are striving to establish a new life in a foreign country.

A Personal Example of Language Learning

From a personal standpoint, I have also invested a significant amount of time and effort into learning to speak German fluently. This is not just about perfecting the language but also about demonstrating respect and courtesy to my German hosts. While I do not strive for native speaker level fluency, my goal is to be able to understand and respond to everyday questions without the need for silent translations. This level of proficiency helps me to integrate smoothly in the German-speaking community.

Conclusion

While the importance of proper English may be a subjective topic, it is clear that language proficiency plays a crucial role in one's ability to integrate into a new culture. Whether you are an immigrant, a tourist, or someone with residency status, investing time and effort in learning the language can significantly enhance your experiences and interactions in a new country. Proper language skills are not only a matter of personal pride but can also be a marker of respect and responsibility towards the community you have chosen to call home.