Language & Communication Styles
By Kristin Stevenson
“Language gives people a means of interacting with other members of their culture and a means of thinking. Language thus serves both as a mechanism for communication and as a guide to social reality”
-Samovar and Porter (1982)
Language is one of the many things that can
vary from culture to culture, country to country and continent to continent. It
is an integral element of human contact and functioning. Cultural norms rest on
different levels of communication. Our language and the way we use it defines
us. In fact, we are confronted with conflict between cultures and different
languages because of our own personal definition of language and its functions.
The things we say, how we say them, what we mean and when we say them is
culture specific. The interpretation of our own language comes naturally but
within intercultural communication, it is easy for one to become lost or unsure
of what to say and how to say it. Communication is the number one way of
relating to others and words are so much more than letters put together, rather
they are the backbone of cultural norms and practices. With that being said, it is important to know about communication within a culture before delving into a
conversation with a native. It is also important to know at least a broad
history of the language and of what is and is not acceptable.
After some research and a semester of communicating with students from Effat University in Saudi Arabia we were able to gain a deeper understanding of language in Saudi Arabian culture and its role in their day to day lives. In this section of the book, we will address communication via language and its different aspects in Saudi Arabian culture. I will attempt to first put in perspective the general cultural communication customs of Saudi Arabia and then we will delve deeper into specific traits and circumstances of the language of the culture. The official language of Saudi Arabia is Arabic but English is a close second, as it is widely spoken throughout the country. As we know and will see, communication has many different levels thus language is only a small piece of the customs of a culture. But, language plays a very large role in many ways in defining the cultural standards.
After some research and a semester of communicating with students from Effat University in Saudi Arabia we were able to gain a deeper understanding of language in Saudi Arabian culture and its role in their day to day lives. In this section of the book, we will address communication via language and its different aspects in Saudi Arabian culture. I will attempt to first put in perspective the general cultural communication customs of Saudi Arabia and then we will delve deeper into specific traits and circumstances of the language of the culture. The official language of Saudi Arabia is Arabic but English is a close second, as it is widely spoken throughout the country. As we know and will see, communication has many different levels thus language is only a small piece of the customs of a culture. But, language plays a very large role in many ways in defining the cultural standards.
What is Respectful?
Communicating ones respect for another culture is not always as simple as it seems as the notion of being respectful can be quite relative depending on culture and situation. That is, something we, as Americans might consider ‘respectful’ might not be to someone from Saudi Arabia. This is an aspect of intercultural communication that cannot be escaped and it exists on many levels. It is almost mindboggling to think that the language of our own culture may not be accepted in the same context of another culture. For example it is customary in American culture to not carry out an entire conversation with someone who is passing by, but rather carrying out quick “pleasantries” is considered being respectful to most, whereas in Saudi Arabia, this would be looked at as quite rude. In Saudi Arabia, it is important to stop and ask someone whom you know real questions and carry out a real conversation even if you don’t have a lot of time to talk. The idea of “chit-chatting” and moving on is portrayed as rude and not a part of Saudi Arabian culture. Out of respect for others, you take your time to speak with them, always.
On that level, communication rituals seem to differ quite immensely but on another level, language and being respectful can be quite similar between cultures. For example, one student from Effat University, Shoaa Bamashoos spoke about being respectful to her parents and that in general the way she speaks with her family is quite different from the way she speaks with her friends. Similarly, Americans are more considerate about the way they speak when they are with their parents compared to when they are just spending time with friends. Sarah Melibari confirmed this notion in her Skype interview with Briana Burking. Also, from the interview with Sarah, both parties confirmed that interrupting people is looked at as rude and disrespectful. From experiences this semester, I would have to say that interrupting has different levels comparatively between cultures. There have been times when Skyping Saudi Arabia that for them interrupting seems natural. From what I can tell, it seems that for Saudis interrupting in conversation is actually acceptable but only to a certain extent. For example, in class it might be inappropriate to interrupt a professor continuously but in conversations with friends and family, it seems a natural habit.
Respect comes in various forms and communicating ones respect in an intercultural setting is hard, but possible to do. In Saudi Arabia, the people are most times pleased with visitors making an effort. If it is known that you are a foreigner, most Saudis will take your “struggle” into consideration before completely signing off on the prospect of a relationship with you. In my interview with Rida Khalid, she told me that when she moved to Saudi Arabia from Pakistan, she was worried because of the new culture and her limited ability to speak the language but the people were welcoming and she was able to adjust fairly quickly. It is helpful to enter a new communication language with an open mind and a general respect for the people and their customs even when we are unsure of what that entails.
On that level, communication rituals seem to differ quite immensely but on another level, language and being respectful can be quite similar between cultures. For example, one student from Effat University, Shoaa Bamashoos spoke about being respectful to her parents and that in general the way she speaks with her family is quite different from the way she speaks with her friends. Similarly, Americans are more considerate about the way they speak when they are with their parents compared to when they are just spending time with friends. Sarah Melibari confirmed this notion in her Skype interview with Briana Burking. Also, from the interview with Sarah, both parties confirmed that interrupting people is looked at as rude and disrespectful. From experiences this semester, I would have to say that interrupting has different levels comparatively between cultures. There have been times when Skyping Saudi Arabia that for them interrupting seems natural. From what I can tell, it seems that for Saudis interrupting in conversation is actually acceptable but only to a certain extent. For example, in class it might be inappropriate to interrupt a professor continuously but in conversations with friends and family, it seems a natural habit.
Respect comes in various forms and communicating ones respect in an intercultural setting is hard, but possible to do. In Saudi Arabia, the people are most times pleased with visitors making an effort. If it is known that you are a foreigner, most Saudis will take your “struggle” into consideration before completely signing off on the prospect of a relationship with you. In my interview with Rida Khalid, she told me that when she moved to Saudi Arabia from Pakistan, she was worried because of the new culture and her limited ability to speak the language but the people were welcoming and she was able to adjust fairly quickly. It is helpful to enter a new communication language with an open mind and a general respect for the people and their customs even when we are unsure of what that entails.
Direct and Indirect Language & Disclosure
In Saudi Arabia the people “tend to favor a more indirect communication style” (Saudi Arabia –Culture Crossing). The use of indirect communication is a way to show humility. For instance, it would be considered arrogant for a person to directly ask a favor of another. Furthermore, being indirect shows respect for the other person. A person is often viewed as pushy if they are too direct in their speech. Understanding the inevitable ambiguity of the language practices is key to comprehending conversations between Saudis. For example, a Saudi might say ‘yes’ when he or she actually means ‘maybe’ or a Saudi might say ‘we will see’ meaning ‘no’. This practice of opacity is really a cultural means of avoiding conflict. Indirect communication is a Saudis way of conflict avoidance and also a way to make conversation. It is very important for Saudis to make small talk before really delving into the topic at hand. I also found through my communication with Saudi students this semester that indirect communication can be a means of showing some level of dislike or apathy towards the subject. A few times during my Skype conversations with Shoaa her answers seemed to be a bit unsettled or vague only to find out several minutes later that she preferred a different subject or question.
There are however, occasions when direct attitudes are preferred. During conversation whilst making a point Saudis are usually fairly direct. If there is something specific they want to get across, it will be made clear. From my experience, when scheduling meeting times to Skype, my partners seemed to be quite direct and punctual. It is interesting that directness is a variable that depends on a situation whereas in American culture is widely preferred that people be prompt and direct. If an American is not direct, it is usually looked at as a personal trait for that specific person. Thus, while directness in American culture depends on the person, the level of directness (or lack thereof) in Saudi culture depends on the situation and topic.
Another aspect of direct versus indirect communication is disclosure. In order for Saudis to exhibit any direct communication with someone, they must feel some level of comfort. Disclosure, similar to trust is earned in the Saudi world of communication. In order for a Saudi to really express their ideas with another, there is an initial, sort of phase of “bonding” that must take place. This “bonding”, as I’ll call it, can include anything from mere exposure to eye contact. This is something I experienced outright in my Skyping with students from Effat University. It was evident that Shoaa, in our first interview was hesitant to be herself and fully disclose herself. I, on the other hand was eager to share as much as possible in that first session. It wasn’t until our very last Skype session that I really felt that Shoaa was willing to partake and actually happy to talk with us. Interestingly, many Saudis do not like to share any sort of negative emotion. I mentioned before their preferred attitude of conflict avoidance and negative emotions fall right into that category. For Saudis and most Middle Eastern countries, “negative speech compels negative results” therefore they “shun speaking about unpleasantries” (Arab Cultural Awareness). Negative emotions create a bad atmosphere and consequently are left unsaid.
This concept of very limited self-disclosure and indirect communication may seem very unusual for an American who is used to a life of ‘wearing their heart on their sleeve’ and saying what they want as quickly and succinctly as possible. Saudi communication, as we can see is very different in this respect and it is a significant difference in intercultural language communication.
There are however, occasions when direct attitudes are preferred. During conversation whilst making a point Saudis are usually fairly direct. If there is something specific they want to get across, it will be made clear. From my experience, when scheduling meeting times to Skype, my partners seemed to be quite direct and punctual. It is interesting that directness is a variable that depends on a situation whereas in American culture is widely preferred that people be prompt and direct. If an American is not direct, it is usually looked at as a personal trait for that specific person. Thus, while directness in American culture depends on the person, the level of directness (or lack thereof) in Saudi culture depends on the situation and topic.
Another aspect of direct versus indirect communication is disclosure. In order for Saudis to exhibit any direct communication with someone, they must feel some level of comfort. Disclosure, similar to trust is earned in the Saudi world of communication. In order for a Saudi to really express their ideas with another, there is an initial, sort of phase of “bonding” that must take place. This “bonding”, as I’ll call it, can include anything from mere exposure to eye contact. This is something I experienced outright in my Skyping with students from Effat University. It was evident that Shoaa, in our first interview was hesitant to be herself and fully disclose herself. I, on the other hand was eager to share as much as possible in that first session. It wasn’t until our very last Skype session that I really felt that Shoaa was willing to partake and actually happy to talk with us. Interestingly, many Saudis do not like to share any sort of negative emotion. I mentioned before their preferred attitude of conflict avoidance and negative emotions fall right into that category. For Saudis and most Middle Eastern countries, “negative speech compels negative results” therefore they “shun speaking about unpleasantries” (Arab Cultural Awareness). Negative emotions create a bad atmosphere and consequently are left unsaid.
This concept of very limited self-disclosure and indirect communication may seem very unusual for an American who is used to a life of ‘wearing their heart on their sleeve’ and saying what they want as quickly and succinctly as possible. Saudi communication, as we can see is very different in this respect and it is a significant difference in intercultural language communication.
Explicit & Implicit Messages
In Saudi Arabia, the people love to talk which “stems from the rich nomadic oral tradition of greeting travelers and exchanging information” (Arab Cultural Awareness). The language for Saudis is more than just verbal; their bodies and gestures say a lot in different contexts of communication as well. Similarly to direct and indirect communication, Saudis will only sometimes explicitly say what it is they would like or not. Implicit messages are abundant in Saudi communication. Many times, important messages are only implied instead of explicitly articulated. Although it is not explicitly stated, it is implicitly assumed that quiet talking, especially in restaurants is respectful and the cultural norm. A raised voice is usually an indication of anger and thus avoided at most costs.
Another level of implicit messaging is expectations within the family. In my Skype session with Rida, she explained to me that when her parents moved to Saudi Arabia from Pakistan, they did not explicitly tell her that she was required to move with them but out of respect and a general knowledge of what her parents want, she felt compelled to accompany them to the new country. Even though she was in University and able to live on her own, cultural implicit messages influenced her choice of staying with her parents. Many times, in Saudi culture, it is important to focus on what is not being said to fully see the larger picture of a message. In many scenarios, Saudis rely on body language to conclude the ultimate message of a conversation. If a person explicitly says ‘I apologize for what I’ve done’ while looking anywhere else but the eyes of the other, it will not be interpreted as a sincere apology. The explicit message does not match the implied one.
For an American who is used to what he or she is saying as always being taken at face value, this language of developed implied messages may seem frustrating. To Saudis, the American communication style of explicit messages being all there is to it can seem foreign and artificial. This is the world of intercultural communication.
Another level of implicit messaging is expectations within the family. In my Skype session with Rida, she explained to me that when her parents moved to Saudi Arabia from Pakistan, they did not explicitly tell her that she was required to move with them but out of respect and a general knowledge of what her parents want, she felt compelled to accompany them to the new country. Even though she was in University and able to live on her own, cultural implicit messages influenced her choice of staying with her parents. Many times, in Saudi culture, it is important to focus on what is not being said to fully see the larger picture of a message. In many scenarios, Saudis rely on body language to conclude the ultimate message of a conversation. If a person explicitly says ‘I apologize for what I’ve done’ while looking anywhere else but the eyes of the other, it will not be interpreted as a sincere apology. The explicit message does not match the implied one.
For an American who is used to what he or she is saying as always being taken at face value, this language of developed implied messages may seem frustrating. To Saudis, the American communication style of explicit messages being all there is to it can seem foreign and artificial. This is the world of intercultural communication.
Symbolic Messages
In most Arab speaking countries, the people “love flowery phrases, exaggerations, and other rhetoric, and generally consider eloquent people more respectable and trustworthy” (Arab Cultural Awareness). Most often, messages are symbolic rather than literal. Being creative in one’s speech is a great quality as many Saudis admire poetry. Language itself is a symbolic system through which people communicate and for Saudis the use of speech in an imaginative way as important as eating dinner. Saudis thrive on good conversation and find it fulfilling.
This symbolic way of speech is an intriguing and inspiring. To use ones language to its fullest potential is a great goal and ultimately an amazing cultural phenomenon. In the past, and even today in some places in the Middle East, specifically, language was the sole way to communicate as literacy levels were quite low thus doing it eloquently was a sign of education. This trait of symbolic language is not specific to Saudi Arabia but it is definitely one worth bragging about.
This symbolic way of speech is an intriguing and inspiring. To use ones language to its fullest potential is a great goal and ultimately an amazing cultural phenomenon. In the past, and even today in some places in the Middle East, specifically, language was the sole way to communicate as literacy levels were quite low thus doing it eloquently was a sign of education. This trait of symbolic language is not specific to Saudi Arabia but it is definitely one worth bragging about.
Communication is a very large topic and is not limited to language. One can learn a great deal by developing a comprehensive appreciation for the cultural customs and norms that reveal themselves through communication. Being fluent in the language of a culture starts with learning the actual language, yes but continues through an understanding of the performance of it in many situations. The rest of this section of the book seeks to understand communication in more specific situations within Saudi culture. What it means to perform a cultural language in different situations and on different levels and also specific examples of certain Saudi rituals.
REFERENCES
Arab Cultural Awareness- 58 Factsheets. (2006, January). Retrieved December 10, 2012, from http://www.fas.org/irp/agency/army/arabculture.pdf
Martin N., J., Nakayama K., T., Flores A., L. (2002). Readings in Intercultural Communications. McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
Negotiating International Business - Saudi Arabia. (2010, April). Retrieved December 8, 2012, from http://www.globalnegotiationresources.com/cou/SaudiArabia.pdf
Saudi Arabia. (n.d.). Retrieved December 9, 2012, from Culture Crossing website: http://www.culturecrossing.net/basics_business_student.php?id=178
Saudi Arabia. (n.d.). Retrieved December 9, 2012, from Saudi Arabia. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://yfuusa.org/media/yes_lounge/Saudi%20Arabia.pdf
Yoneoka, J. (2011). The Importance of Language Negotiation in Initial Intercultural Encounters: The Case of the Service Industry Employee. Intercultural Communication Studies, 20(1), 90-103.
Bamashmoos, S. Personal Skype Interview. 9 Oct. 2012.
Khalid, R. Personal Skype Interview. 3 Dec. 2012.
Melibari, S. Skype Interview by Briana Burking. 11 Oct. 2012.
REFERENCES
Arab Cultural Awareness- 58 Factsheets. (2006, January). Retrieved December 10, 2012, from http://www.fas.org/irp/agency/army/arabculture.pdf
Martin N., J., Nakayama K., T., Flores A., L. (2002). Readings in Intercultural Communications. McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
Negotiating International Business - Saudi Arabia. (2010, April). Retrieved December 8, 2012, from http://www.globalnegotiationresources.com/cou/SaudiArabia.pdf
Saudi Arabia. (n.d.). Retrieved December 9, 2012, from Culture Crossing website: http://www.culturecrossing.net/basics_business_student.php?id=178
Saudi Arabia. (n.d.). Retrieved December 9, 2012, from Saudi Arabia. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://yfuusa.org/media/yes_lounge/Saudi%20Arabia.pdf
Yoneoka, J. (2011). The Importance of Language Negotiation in Initial Intercultural Encounters: The Case of the Service Industry Employee. Intercultural Communication Studies, 20(1), 90-103.
Bamashmoos, S. Personal Skype Interview. 9 Oct. 2012.
Khalid, R. Personal Skype Interview. 3 Dec. 2012.
Melibari, S. Skype Interview by Briana Burking. 11 Oct. 2012.