Why Educated Germans Prefer to Speak English with English Speakers

Language preferences and communication choices are often guided by factors such as practicality, efficiency, and courtesy. In many cases, educated Germans, especially those in professional or international settings, opt to speak English with English speakers even when the latter are making a conscious effort to practice their German. This article delves into the reasons behind this tendency and how cultural and practical considerations can influence language use.

Practicality Over Courtesy

While the intention of speaking German is often to be courteous and provide a more comfortable experience for non-native speakers, the reality is that the practicality of communication often takes precedence. When two individuals from different linguistic backgrounds attempt to communicate in a less familiar language, the result is often inefficient and frustrating.

Practicality plays a significant role in language choice. According to Bosch, a company with operations spanning multiple countries, English is not just a preferred language but often the mandatory one. This is particularly true in Germany, where English is a key language for international business and communication. Many Germans have taken mandatory English courses, making their English proficiency generally higher than that of other non-native speakers from different countries.

Global Language Dominance

English has become the lingua franca of the modern world. It is widely used across various sectors, including business, technology, academia, and travel. This global dominance has made English the go-to language for efficient communication, particularly in mixed-language interactions.

According to linguistic studies, the English spoken by non-native speakers tends to be better than the German, Korean, Swedish, or Egyptian spoken by non-native speakers. This is not because the languages themselves are inferior or superior, but because the circumstances of learning and using a second language often lead to better overall proficiency in English. As a result, educated Germans, with their enhanced English skills, prefer to use English to communicate effectively, ensuring a smoother and more stress-free interaction.

Cultural Differences in Courtesy

In many cultures, including Germany, it is considered courteous to speak the language that will make the conversation most comfortable and efficient for the non-native speaker. For instance, it is common for English speakers to switch to their native language if they notice that the German counterpart is struggling with their limited German.

For the educated German, the struggle to speak a less familiar language can lead to a less effective and more frustrating communication. By speaking English, even when German would be more appropriate, they are demonstrating courtesy and a desire to facilitate effective communication.

Case Study from Bosch

Experiences from Bosch

I worked at a German company, Bosch, in the UK for 15 years. In most German states, learning English is mandatory, and as a result, their English proficiency is generally higher than that of Germans. Even in meetings with predominantly Germans, all conversations were conducted in English. This was assumed rather than discussed, reflecting the practicality of using a widely understood language.

Additionally, when it is efficient to do so, English is used even in meetings with Turkish subsidiaries, which also mandates English proficiency. This is not about politeness but practicality. The technical and business communication required in these settings would be significantly harder and potentially error-prone when conducted in a less familiar language.

Conclusion: Finding the Right Environments

While it is understandable that non-native speakers may struggle with their limited proficiency in a language, it is also important to recognize that the goal is to communicate efficiently and effectively. If your primary goal is to practice and improve your German, there are numerous environments where you can do so, such as language classes, expat meetups, or social events dedicated to learning and practicing a new language.

By seeking out these environments, you can build your language skills in a supportive and engaging setting, ensuring that your language practice is both enjoyable and educational.