Based on my initial language interview, I have been placed into the intermediate level in my training site. What surprises me is that I can hardly understand what is said to me most of the time. Why?
1. The slang that is used here is different than what I am used to. For example, if I wanted to ask how much something costs, “Cuanto cuesta?” but Nicaraguans use, “Cuanto vale?”
“Vos” replaces “tú.” The vos form would require you to get rid of the last letter in the infinitive form of the verb and replace it with an “s.” Example: poderà podes. Cantarà cantas. A question using the vos form would be: Vos estas comiendo? Que estas haciendo vos? This can only be used for personal pronouns, however. This replacement of tú is pretty much only used in central America and Argentina.
2. Lispy children are incredibly difficult to understand in English so you can imagine how difficult it is to understand them in Spanish! Children here are super patient and are willing to explain when I don’t understand what they’re saying.
3. Mumbling adults have me requesting them to repeat or clarify by using, “diga?” or “señora?” about 10 times per day. I had to get out of the habit of asking, “mande?” which is widely used in Mexico.
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1 comment:
Joanna! I found the link to your site in my cabinet and enjoyed very much reading your posts! I have never liked/understood the vosotros either. I hope everything continues to go well for you. cuidate amiguita - vada
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