By the Learndix team, experts in languages and cultural mediation
The simple answer: because language and culture are inseparable
Learning a language isn't just memorising vocabulary or mastering grammar. It's understanding how the people who speak it think, live and relate to each other. Without that cultural context, the language stays half-learnt, and comic (or awkward) situations are guaranteed.
We know this from experience.
China, 2009: a trip that explains everything
In the summer of 2009, our founder travelled alone to China with a backpack and a Lonely Planet guide, covering the Shanghai–Beijing–Shaolin triangle over a month. She had been practising wushu (the Chinese martial art the rest of the world calls kung fu) and learning Mandarin for some time. Her plan was to put both into practice. And she certainly did.
What no language textbook teaches you
The trip brought memorable moments no textbook could have predicted:
The most frequent culture shock: in every conversation, however well they knew her, people ended up asking whether she was rich. Perfectly normal in their social context; something that in Europe would come across as tacky and out of place.
A woman of nearly 30 travelling alone, unmarried, with no children and practising kung fu was very surprising to many locals.
After almost a year learning Mandarin on an immersion scholarship from the ICO, with a more than decent level and knowing that in China directions are given using the points of the compass, the time came to explain the destination to a taxi driver. Several attempts, no luck. Then a fellow Spaniard took charge: he stretched both arms forward and shouted a resounding «AHHHHHH!». The taxi driver set off instantly. He knew exactly where to go.
Languages are very useful. But knowing the culture is essential.
The week at the Fawang Si monastery in Shaolin: what was meant to be a short visit to the temple turned into a week staying at the monastery, training in wushu alongside the Shaolin monks. One of the most enriching moments of the trip, made possible by a combination of language, cultural sensitivity and spirituality.
Why does culture speed up language learning?
1. Context gives vocabulary its meaning: words don't exist in a vacuum. Knowing when and how an expression is used matters as much as knowing what it means. Mandarin Chinese, for example, structures addresses in a radically different way from Spanish: first the country, then the city, then the street. That isn't grammar, it's culture.
2. Gestures and body language change radically: in China, physical closeness in public spaces, such as standing right next to a stranger on an empty underground train, doesn't carry the same social meaning as in Spain. Misreading these codes causes needless confusion that can be disastrous when doing business.
3. Motivation soars with cultural connection: learning about a country's history, customs or even its food creates an emotional bond with the language and with other people. That bond fuels you to keep learning when the grammar gets tough.
4. You avoid mistakes no dictionary can prevent: asking about someone's salary, commenting on their weight or raising taboo subjects in the wrong context can ruin a conversation or a negotiation. The language gives you the words; the culture tells you which ones not to use.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need to travel to the country to learn its language properly?
It isn't essential, but it's highly recommended at some point in the process. Cultural immersion, even partial, speeds up learning significantly. Learning with a native language coach can bring the culture to you.
At Learndix we also arrange stays abroad for anyone who wants months or years of cultural immersion.
How is culture covered in Learndix language classes?
Our language coaching approach builds in cultural context from day one: current references, real situations and nuances that traditional methods usually ignore.
Which languages do you teach at Learndix?
We work mainly in English, Spanish, French, German and Chinese. Tell us about your case and we'll help you make that language part of your life.
Do you have a similar story of learning a language abroad? At Learndix we've spent more than 20 years helping people and companies communicate without barriers. Write to us and tell us about your challenge.