Words, Grammar, and Cultural Literacy

It’s the same for learning any language, but if you are trying to learn English, there are three fundamental factors to consider. Naturally, you begin with single words that you really need, that you see, or that you hear. You know what an octagonal sign saying “STOP” means, but what about “XING”? If you are curious, you will write it down and look it up later. You’ll remember these words one at a time. Then you’ll see some common combinations like “look up” and “look at” and try to figure out how to use them.

Simple grammar is enough in the beginning. Don’t worry about being perfect at the beginning. Master just enough so that you can survive, carry on basic communication, and complete your shopping.

“Cultural literacy” may not be familiar. It is the broad cultural knowledge on which English is based. It will be different for Australian, British, and American English. But without it, you will have only two dimensions of communication. For example, why do English speakers say “Bless you!” when another person sneezes? If you have cultural literacy, you will know that it is custom from ancient times to protect the other person from evil spirits. No one believes that now, but you have to reply “Thank you.” Knowing that gives you the third element: cultural literacy.

Try one: “He has a snowball’s chance in hell.” What does it mean?

Answer: Hell is imagined to be very hot, and a snowball would melt there.

The meaning: He has zero chance (of doing something). This is part of cultural literacy.

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