161: Should I use formal or informal language?

Chris asks: "Should I speak formally or informally in Turkish?"

In this episode: Every language has it's convention as to when and where you should speak formally or informally I've found myself resisting speaking formally in other languages, and I've always been curious why that is What I've learnt is that my "default" is informal, because that's the way we speak English Once you understand the cultural significance of formal and informal speech in the language you're learning, it will make your decision much easier

Japanese:

Ultra polite: omeshi-agari ni narimasen ka Polite: meshi-agarimasen ka OR taberaremasen ka Normal: tabemasu ka Informal: taberu?

Spanish:

Tú is standard in most places for speaking to someone your age or below But in Colombia, Usted is used within the family, as a cultural mark of respect and affection

French:

"Je peux vous tutoyer?"

The problem in your case may be that you're not using Turkish enough to develop a gut feel for what is appropriate...

Once you're using the language regularly, you'll get it! Remember that speaking politely, but with a warm smile, can be extremely endearing and doesn't have to be stiff Watch TV and movies and pay attention just to that A good rule of thumb is to use the polite form But it never really matters... you get a free pass as a foreigner! Quote Of The Day: Be polite; write diplomatically; even in a declaration of war one observes the rules of politeness. -Otto von Bismarck Start speaking today

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