Sometimes, gaining conversational skills in a language need not necessarily require a mastery of it. In fact, if you’ll only be in a foreign country for a short time, learning a few key conversational phrases may be all you need to get by.
Serious Language Lessons
As great as it is to gain fluency in a country’s tongue before visiting it, it’s hardly the best solution for everyone. If you’ll spend two weeks in France to attend a one-off trade show, for instance, it’s hardly worth the effort to take a five-month course or spend all your free time poring over a language learning software.
Sticking To The Basics
In any language, there are some phrases that are as basic as a “Hello” and a “Thank you” in English. Learn those. Typically, they’re the first set of phrases taught in any language learning material.
Apart from the generic set of everyday language, you’ll likely need to learn some specialized phrases that will be valuable to your visit. If you’re there for shopping, learn key phrases that you can use when dealing with shop clerks. If you’re being chauffeured around town by a guide, learning how to use the vernacular for finding your way around different places is obviously not necessary. When you’re hitting the country for a business meeting, taking the time to pick up a few crucial conversational phrases should help you when dealing with clients and peers.
Don’t Be Afraid
Most importantly, don’t be afraid to use the few key phrases that you took the time to study. Engage people in conversation – you’ll be surprised by how they can be of those trying taking the effort to converse with them in their native tongue.