Everyone knows the stereotype that us Americans are super stubborn when it comes to learning new languages but I want to see what people think about it that aren't from America. Whenever I travel to a new country I try to learn some simple phrases here and there just so I don't seem like a typical stupid American and obviously since I'm on this website I'm actually trying to learn a new language now. But for those of you that aren't from America when you visit here or have a tourist in your country is the subbornness that bad? What goes through your mind when you meet an American that is to stubborn to even try to learn a new language? Also there have been times where I've tried to learn some phrases in a language and people were upset because I didn't know enough, it wasn't spoken properly, etc. So my other question for you all is what goes through your mind when an American tries to speak your language but is really bad at it? Are you insulted by it that they didn't take the time to learn it properly? Or are you glad to see they are at least making an effort?
When I was in NY, I was really impressed that many people knew some simple russian words and phrases. I was like "where did you learn it? how do you even keep it in mind?" As for me, I'm always pleased to see someone who makes an effort to memorize something in Russian, quite unpopular and difficult language.
For me, it's incredibly corteous when someone tries to speak in my language. It shows respect and willingness to open yourself to a new culture. I really don't mind about the mistakes, and I like to help whenever I can.
I understand your position with your fellow folks, but I'm not sure that's exclusively to the USA. Brazillians when travelling to Argentina or Uruguay or other spanish speaking neighbours, in general, don't make a single effort to say at least "gracias".
It's probably a consequence of the combination of a crowded nation with a growing purchasing power.
