Vincent’s first trip to the grocery store in America is one that will remain etched forever in our memory. It was full of language bloopers and cultural misunderstandings.
When checking out, the cashier asked Vincent, “Do you want paper or plastic?”
Vincent proceeded to pull out his wallet from his jeans. He handed the cashier a twenty dollar bill and told her that he would like to pay with “paper” money rather than a “plastic” credit card.
The cashier looked confused.
In French, I explained to Vincent that the cashier was not referring to his method of payment, but rather if he wanted his groceries sacked in “plastic” bags or brown “paper” bags.
We all laughed together!
I wonder if that cashier in Missouri still remembers that funny linguistic and cultural incident as clearly as we do?!
—The Cultural Story-Weaver
Avoid language bloopers and cultural misunderstandings! Try Rosetta Stone—in French and many other languages. In our opinion, it is one of the best language learning tools out there—besides traveling to a foreign country! 🙂
LET’S WEAVE CULTURES!
What language and cultural bloopers have you made? Tell us your funny (and “not so funny”) stories.
How do you keep a humble attitude while learning a new language and culture? How do you respond when people laugh at you when you are learning a foreign language?
We invite you to tell us your own cultural stories and global adventures . . . as you engage with the world, breaking down barriers, building bridges, and “weaving cultures!” Write about them in the comment box below.
