In the dynamic environment of international workplaces, where multilingualism is the norm, communication can sometimes hit stumbling blocks. Idioms, those colourful expressions where the words’ literal meanings don’t align with their collective significance, often stand as the chief culprits.
These linguistic tools are deeply rooted in the cultural history of languages, rendering them tricky to translate. Often, there’s no direct equivalent in other languages, leading to lost nuances and misinterpretations.
Reflecting on my journey, predominantly immersed in English-speaking circumstances, I’ve come to realise how deeply ingrained these idioms are in my vocabulary. Transitioning to a multilingual workspace shed light on the confusion sparked by phrases like ‘kick the bucket’ or ‘feel fried,’ which evoke more bewilderment than clarity.
Just the other day in the office, I advised that a colleague should ‘put pen to paper’ before diving into planning, intending for them to formalise agreements by signing contracts first. Similarly, I once dismissed certain information as ‘another ingredient in the soup,’ implying its insignificance in the broader context. These idiomatic expressions often slip seamlessly into our discourse, becoming second nature. We ‘get the ball rolling’ on tasks without even realising the figurative nature of our language, as these expressions become part and parcel of our daily communication.
Observing the reactions of non-native English speakers to these phrases prompts reflection on how I choose to articulate myself. As a native speaker, I recognise the privilege of having a rich linguistic toolbox at my disposal. Consequently, I view it as my responsibility to exert language inclusively, ensuring that my communication bridges gaps rather than creating barriers for those in different linguistic landscapes.
