Thread: Native Words/Phrases you use even though daily you speak another language

You said "besides counting" so you must know the trick I think people revert back to their native language in situations that help them feel more comfortable or allow them to concentrate on things. These could be very individual situations but counting in your native language seems to be the most universal one for focusing. You should look for research on that topic.

Originally Posted by MasterAdmin

You said "besides counting" so you must know the trick

Yes, I learned this one a long time ago when I lived in New York. I had this doctor who spoke perfect English and then he spoke French with his wife who was also his nurse. Then all of the sudden he was counting in German! I was blown away and confused. He explained to me that people will count (especially when it is money or something important) in whatever language they were taught to count in, no matter how long they have spoken another language. I have found this "rule" to be true no matter the language.

Originally Posted by MasterAdmin

I think people revert back to their native language in situations that help them feel more comfortable or allow them to concentrate on things. These could be very individual situations... You should look for research on that topic.

Interesting idea about the situations that help them to feel more comfortable..... AND why do you think I am asking people here... it is real time research!