by SoHo Language Group | Dec 3, 2019 | Cultural Differences
A young French woman on an exchange program in New York walked into a clothes store on Fifth Avenue one afternoon. A salesperson greeted her with, “How are you today?” “I was shocked!” she told me, a day later. “Why is that so shocking?” I asked. “But that lady...
by SoHo Language Group | Jun 20, 2018 | Cultural Differences, Language
If I could offer one piece of advice to non-native speakers in a meeting with mostly native English speakers, I would say, “Open your mouth wide — yes, wide — when you speak.” In many cultures, such open-mouthiness is considered unnatural and, frankly, vulgar. The...
by SoHo Language Group | Oct 8, 2017 | Cultural Differences
In the wake of the Las Vegas massacre, the phrase “thoughts and prayers” has again emerged for consideration. The root of “thoughts and prayers” as a hypocritical form of condolence was made clear in The New York Times Oct 4 article aptly named, “Thoughts...
by SoHo Language Group | May 14, 2017 | Cultural Differences
In an article on the current British Museum’s exhibit of 60’s and post-60’s American art, English historian Simon Schama makes the pop culture reference, “But we’re not in Kansas anymore, Toto.” If that phrase is not familiar to you, either you have not seen the 1939...
by SoHo Language Group | Mar 10, 2017 | Cultural Differences, Language, Uncategorized
Many non-native speakers of English experience anguish over the proper use of the present perfect verb tense (have done, have seen, etc.), which is often confused with the simple past (did, saw, etc.). The present perfect connects an action that started at some point...
by SoHo Language Group | Aug 3, 2015 | Cultural Differences
A well-written corporate thank-you note can make your clients happy and increase your business. Conversely, a poorly written note sends a signal that you do not care 100% about your clients. Mastering the perfect thank-you note involves just three basic things: Say...
