The Perception of Foreignness in Mastered Foreign Languages
When someone learns a foreign language, the way it sounds to them can vary based on several factors even after they've mastered it. Here are some key points to consider:
Phonetics and Accent
Non-native speakers often retain some characteristics of their native accent, which can make their speech sound foreign. Even highly proficient speakers may have subtle differences in pronunciation that distinguish them from native speakers. These nuanced differences are often difficult for non-fluent learners to recognize, but can still be perceived by native speakers and themselves.
Language Processing
The brain processes languages differently based on familiarity. A fluent speaker may still perceive foreign sounds or structures as distinct, especially if they are not commonly used in their native language. This is due to the fact that the brain builds mental patterns based on what it has been exposed to, and these patterns can sometimes clash when trying to process new sounds or structures.
Cultural Context
Language is deeply intertwined with culture. A speaker might feel that their use of the language is still influenced by their native cultural context, leading to a perception of foreignness. This is particularly true when trying to convey cultural nuances and idiomatic expressions that are not present in the native language.
Personal Experience
Individual experiences and exposure to native speakers can shape how one perceives their own speech. If someone frequently interacts with native speakers, they might feel more integrated into the language. Conversely, less exposure can maintain a sense of foreignness. For example, a beginner in Spanish might struggle with the sounds in ésta está (this is), and this struggle can influence their perception of how their speech sounds.
Self-Perception
How learners perceive their proficiency and fluency can also play a role. If they view themselves as non-native speakers, they may always feel that their speech sounds foreign, regardless of their actual skill level. Self-confidence in language skills is crucial, and even mastering a language can be hindered by negative self-perception. However, with confidence and persistence, this feeling can eventually diminish.
A Personal Perspective
I have noticed that part of learning a language is being aware of sounds that don’t matter in other languages I know. My friend who grew up in the US, for instance, cannot hear the difference between “pin” and “pen.” In Spanish, a beginner might have trouble hearing the differences in ésta está (this is), which can impact their self-perception and fluency.
While some people might feel weird when speaking their second or third language, for me, it’s a mix of both. I can confidently speak English as if it was my native tongue, even though it’s my second language. However, when it comes to speaking Arabic, I still feel like a foreigner, speaking some foreign language. This is ultimately a personal experience, and with a little confidence and persistence, this feeling will likely go away.
In summary, while a person can master a foreign language, various factors can influence whether it sounds foreign to them when they speak it. Success in language learning is not just about achieving proficiency, but also about personal perception and confidence. With the right approach and continued practice, fluency and integration into the language can be achieved.