Local language preferences
I would like to respond to Adelynn Benicia Sinaga’s disheartening article published on this page yesterday titled “Taiwan loves the ‘right’ foreigners.”
It might be true that Taiwanese have some stereotypes and a preference for a more occidental look, but that also happens in every country. Due to biological brain functions, people in every nation tend to remain in their comfort zone by assimilating with others who look similar to their social group. Americans just happen to be lucky to have a light skin tone and be native English speakers.
I strongly believe that Taiwanese oftentimes converse with American speakers for the convenience of providing free talk sessions.
Let us say that they grab opportunities to practice their communication skills with native speakers of English. There is nothing personal, it is just a give-and-take situation. Taiwanese would have more chances to practice their listening skills and sound like a native speaker.
That give-and-take situation is because Taiwanese students need to pass exams. Consequently, there must be a need to strike up a conversation with native English speakers to pass English exams.
So, we would understand that native speakers become handy when it comes to helping them sound like native speakers of English. After all, one has to keep in mind that Taiwanese still welcome all foreigners to have a good time in Taiwan.
Nevertheless, Taiwanese value convenience and practical experiences that would be helpful in overcoming life challenges.
I sincerely hope this is helpful to all non-native speakers of English and that they would feel more comfortable in their daily lives in Taiwan.
David Blasco
New Taipei City
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