Every relationship has its challenges and rewards, and a significant language barrier can definitely affect the way your relationship works. That doesn’t mean you can’t have a long and happy relationship with someone who doesn’t speak the same language as you do, but it does mean that you’ll have to put in more effort if you want things to work out.
There are a lot of steps you both can take to communicate more effectively and overcome your language barrier. While learning to speak the same language is important, it can take time, and it’s important to take advantage of other resources to help in the meantime. Keep reading to learn more about how language barriers can affect relationships.
How can language barriers affect relationships?
A language barrier, depending on how severe it is, can affect your relationship in a variety of ways. If you don’t speak any of the same languages, even basic discussions can be difficult at first unless you have a translator or some other way to ensure a smooth conversation. It can be frustrating to miscommunicate or be misinterpreted but try to remember to be patient, you’re both learning and it might take time to develop a communication style that works for both of you. However, your differences can also be used as a spark for learning and conversation.
You’ll make mistakes, and that’s okay. Mistakes can be good for the learning process. Languages can be confusing, but being in a relationship like this also provides both of you with the opportunity to study a new language, which can be as fun as it is challenging. Meeting and getting to know your partner’s friends can also be tricky if you also have a language barrier with them, though you may be able to learn even more from being around them.
It’s a good idea to find actions and gestures that you both understand, in addition to finding other nonverbal ways to express affection. A couples therapist or language expert may also be able to provide advice, so don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.
What can you do to improve your relationship?
The most obvious way to overcome a language barrier is to learn to speak the same language. However, it can be hard to know what the most effective way to do that is. For those who prefer to learn online, Belatone is a great option. One reason to use Belatone is that it focuses on conversational language, rather than rigid academic exercises. For people looking to learn how to talk to others, this platform can be much more useful. You can learn more at belatone.com/.
A couples therapy retreat can be a great way to spend more time together while focusing on addressing any issues you may be having within your relationship. There’s nothing better for a relationship than spending some time alone bonding and getting to know each other on a deeper level. Not only can you escape to somewhere beautiful, but you can also build a more solid foundation for your relationship at the same time.
It can be incredibly tough to be in a relationship when you don’t speak the same language fluently. However, that doesn’t mean you should avoid relationships that involve a language barrier or give up if you’re already in one. Being with someone who speaks a different language than you can be difficult, but it also presents opportunities to broaden your horizon and become close with someone in a new way.
You may even find you end up learning to speak a whole new language yourself. While language barriers do present additional challenges in a relationship, there are a number of resources available to help you and your partner overcome your language barrier and learn how to communicate as effectively as possible.