5 for Friday: Languages We Speak
You know that we speak digital. But you may not know that we’ve picked up other vernaculars. Oui–shouldn’t that be spelled weeeeeee? Anywho, we’ve picked up phrases from as far away as Egypt, France, and yes–North Florida. And today’s 5 for Friday will take you inside 5 of those vernaculars. Andale! Andale!
Alison speaks French
Sure, Spanish would have been more practical but French sounded so beautiful. I studied it in high school and college. Come to think of it… I also know some sweet phrases in Swedish and German thanks to an old boyfriend. Thanks Hans;)
Deena speaks Arabic
Growing up in Egypt, the first words I learned were Arabic. I’d describe Arabic as long and complicated. Attending a French elementary school quickly excelled my French. I enjoyed the language and culture so much that I majored in French and spent a semester in Paris. I associated English with summer vacations to the U.S. to visit family so when we moved here when I was 12, I already knew it. The culture and humor were another thing entirely.
Neirda speaks Kreyòl
While I know enough Spanish to stay out of trouble and enough Italian to get into trouble; I’m fluent in Kreyòl and French. Since my family is from Haiti, I grew up immersed in both languages. All Hatians born and raised in Haiti speak Kreyòl. Many also speak French. But, given the choice–and a lot more spare time–I’d speak Italian. Who can resist Italian food, art, or men? Not me.
Frederick speaks Italian
In case you don’t know by looking at me or by tasting my handmade pizza–I’m Italian. It’s like Neirda said: Italians are awesome. In terms of the actually language, I’d say I’m fluent in all curse words thanks to my grandpa. I’d like to balance out my Italian but I just started learning Japanese so it’s going to be awhile.
Emily Speaks… Sign Language?
In third grade my parents signed me up for an after school program called LEAP (Language Education and Application with Peers). I thought we’d play leap frog but instead our teacher taught us sign language. It has stuck with me. I also took French in high school and then went to Paris to put it to the test when I was 19. I also took Spanish back in the day but aside from entrees on the Tijuana Flats menu–it’s all but left the building.
So what languages do y’all speak?
Related posts:
Does sarcasm count? Oh, and I’m fluent in 30 Rock…
Blurgh.
Nerds!
I want to go to there.
That’s a deal breaker, ladies!