Communication in Vietnam
The Vietnamese are generally observed as being indirect verbal communicators. However, while there is less reliance on clearly descriptive vocabulary, they give strong clues about their message through their surrounding posture, expression and tone of voice. In Vietnam, the context of conversations can also provide further meaning to their words, as there are well-established orders between speakers in the Vietnamese language. For example, Vietnamese pronouns such as “bác, thím, ông, cháu” address the other person in a way that respects their relationship and status. However, this form of communication translates differently when spoken in English and can come across as quite a blunt approach to communication. Vietnamese people also usually express how they feel quite genuinely and honestly, which can similarly give the perception that they are speaking very frankly.
In an effort to speak modestly, the Vietnamese have a tendency not to use very colourful expressions. For example, they may say they “like” something instead of “love” it, that they feel “bad” instead of “awful”, or that something is “good” instead of “amazing”. This kind of speech is considered more emotionally balanced. Furthermore, using very artful words can come across as being too exaggerated and insincere.
When they refuse, Vietnamese people usually save face and politeness, we may see them avoid giving a flat ‘no’ or negative response, even when they disagree with you. Therefore, focus on hints of hesitation in terms of what is said, how it is said and with what body language. One can usually find the underlying meaning by asking open-ended questions. When they agree, consider that a ‘yes’ may be spoken to indicate “I hear you” or “I understand” rather than “I agree with what is said”.
In Vietnamese, what can also provide meaning to words?
The insincere language.
The social status.
The language order.
The context.