Have you felt the burning feeling of embarrassment? We all have. This is especially true for those of us brave enough to learn and speak a second language. Sometimes after this embarrassment happened you think of the best thing to say. You ask yourself “why didn’t I say that!?” But it’s too late. The time has passed. You’re going to get a simple and easy comeback to those people who make fun of you English. The best part? It’s from the enigmatic, Salma Hayek.
In episode 65 of the Living in English: 365 podcast you learned an easy response to use when you’re teased for your English. Listen to that episode below.
There are many reasons why people make fun of others for their English skills. Sometimes they’re bullies. Other times they’re intimidated and feel threatened by you because you know more than they do. Every time, they plain suck.
It doesn’t matter why they’re doing or saying the things that they are.
What matters is how you respond. What should you say? Let’s take some advice from the multi-talented and every gorgeous Salma Hayek!
I adore Salma Hayek. Salma is a Mexican-American Actress and movie producer. She has starred in films such as Frida, Fool’s Rush In, and created Ugly Betty (Yo Soy Betty, La Fea), to name a few.. Not only is she extremely intelligent and talented, but she has overcome many obstacles.
Salma struggled with dyslexia growing up. Now, she’s a champion and shining example for others who have or struggled with dyslexia. In addition to that, she is also a second language learner. That’s right, she learned English as a second language. Here’s her advice for those of us learning a second language.
I came across this video by change. However, I never forgot the words that she spoke because she was right. I hope you agree. You can watch a clip from her interview below.
Here’s the secret: Just tell that person “so what?” If you don’t like that phrase, say “oh well.”
It’s that simple.
What’s the best advice someone gave you about learning English?