Surprising Strangers by Speaking Their Language

[@xiaomanyc]

Want to learn to speak lots of languages like me? Check out my new project Street-Smart Languages: www.streetsmartlanguages.com/

[@AJ12Gamer]

Work on your pronunciations. Your tagalog is horrible!!!! Please work on that and do another video. 🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@freak1sees714]

Hey mate.. do you only stick to Asian languages because I'd love to hear you try Dutch..? 'They' say you're not much if you don't speak Dutch lol.

[@gamebored7540]

Marunong kang magsalita ng tagalog?! (You know how to speak Tagalog?!) Para sa isang Amerikano, ang galing mong magsalita ng Tagalog! Pinoy po ako. (For an American your good at speaking in Tagalog, I'm a Filipino person)

[@OfficialDman]

You should try to learn Russian. It’s a tough language to learn from scratch, but I’m sure you could master it since you’ve mastered tougher languages like Mandarin

[@foureyezzz]

I don't think you could learn any of the Scandinavian languages. Some words have like 7 or 8 different meanings. Good luck if try.

[@MrSinnlee]

Language is the key. As soon as he speaks you see an invisible barrier unlocked and friendship pours forward. Its beautiful to witness.

[@oblibeggar7571]

and sad also

[@danielismyname3727]

So true. It almost makes me cry

[@maboigrandmaster2993]

i once read a book where it said if humanity onlynhad 1 language we would be wayyy more nice to each other

[@gxosz]

Not these edgy kids actin 💀

[@frankmcgillicutty5431]

Indeed. If you could talk to people you usually see theyre not that dif from yourself. Most people have more in common than not.

[@pauliepecans4213]

The coolest thing about knowing multiple languages is how much smaller the world seems. People that seem "foreign" are also just normal people that happen to speak differently

[@Toolray6985]

Yeah their whole demeanor changes when he speaks their language. They all start joking around with him.

[@emarcostar]

I love this comment

[@mattfield3371]

@@Toolray6985 of course...white people are often seen in the world as thinking they're better or only speaking English...especially Americans, as soon as you show someone you know something about their culture and language it opens them up to taking you as someone who they can then identify with instead of viewing as someone they have nothing in common with.

[@Mario7p]

it helps but you really don't need to speak multiple languages to realize we're all "normal people", whatever that means

[@out4delf]

You talk about people being normal people, y’all never been to Afghanistan.

[@TheRealGuywithoutaMustache]

There's just something too wholesome about this whole concept. It's the biggest sign of respect when you learn their language just to speak to them.

[@hajunchang3121]

Yo

[@chrome-4011]

Ikr

[@davidmitchell3247]

AAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH

[@crispcheck]

It’s been a while since I’ve seen you

[@oly18]

Hooo weeeeee always a surprise meeting you...

[@thatonegirl3934]

My favorite part about this is how immediately everyone’s dispositions change when he speaks their language. They all seem so proud and warm up to him much quicker

[@deathnitsu242]

Yes, its like you are in a better mood when you understand each other eaasly

[@andrewmanning1429]

I noticed it too. I saw it as a sign of respect that he speaks their language and can connect to them on a human level. Its so cool to see. Love it

[@The_True_Mx_Pink]

That's not super surprising. If anyone learns about an entire language, it's clear they have a strong respect and admiration for it, the people and culture very likely just as much. It's a massive sign of respect.

[@QueasyMcSqueezy]

I think it’s the pride of seeing their tongue made it into another country/culture. On top of it being executed respectfully and fluent.

[@scwt89]

@@deathnitsu242 That can't be the reason, considering in a lot of these clips, they would have understood each other more easily in English.

[@morandalec3869]

"Your pronunciation is not good, but you are doing very well." As someone who knows multiple languages, thats such a compliment when you're learning The accent can take time, the ease of flow can take time Knowing how sentences are worded is key

[@hanli5416]

It also has to do with the fact he is switching on the fly and all of a sudden at times. For instance that one cantonese line he throws in never really stands a chance to get tonally adjusted cause he literally throws it in between English sentences. The mandarin comes over much more fluid cause he actually is making a point, asking more. So sometimes i think accent is also him not taking or giving time in situation. If i switch to quickly despite being a close to native speaker in different languages the accents and intonation’s get mixed up too

[@ArissXAS]

@@hanli5416 that's interesting. I can speak english very well, but I find new things I never knew every day, so I consider myself far away from being close to a native. Also my accent seems more eastern European than anything else 😅 I can spot the difference between english from US, Australia and UK most if the time, and I can spot the difference between a southern accent or one from up north from US, but can't spot the difference of accents from other US states. You must have a huge knowledge of the languages you speak close to natives. How many do you speak so well, and how many in total?

[@hanli5416]

@@ArissXAS in my case its cantonese, dutch and english. My cantonese is limited in the sense that my range of known words is somewhat limited and i can’t write chinese but it was the first language i learned and still use with family. Dutch is from where i live and was born. English is the one where one might argue i might have a big accent without knowing it. I am however pretty sure i don’t have what some dutch people call steenkolengruis english. I have been called out on sounding high and laidback online. Which is funny really cause in real life i’m pretty sure nervous twitchy would be more mentioned. Offcourse in normal situations i don’t use english that often and online i am gaming so i might just be more relaxed then. I also learned 4 years of French and German but i can honestly say i don’t consider myself really capable of using the languages. Allthough i don’t have much problems understanding german. And oh yh 2 years of latin but i only remember tidbits of that rlly

[@ArissXAS]

@@hanli5416 that's interesting. My native language is romanian, and as we grew up we started learning English since kindergarden, but my family didn't have a TV until I was maybe in the 7th grade or so, so I haven't watched TV as a child to help me. We started learning French from the 5th grade, up to the 12th, but again, our highschool teaches was not so interested in us, and many times asked us to let her go solve something. It was always the last hour every Wednesday with us. When she didn't ask, we left anyway, after we got used to it, so you could say we forgot in the last 4 years the little we knew from our first 4 years. When I was 19 or 20 I started ninge watching series in English, and in the first 3 years my English got so much better. In school I was mediocre with my English knowledge. Then at 23 I moved to Austria, and now at 30 returned back to my country. I only did a German course before leaving Austria, and started one earlier but was interrupted half way. I learned most of it by myself, and I got close to B2, at least at speaking I was rated B2 while doing the B1 course before leaving. As a teen I also watched some spanish series because of my older sister, and now I understand quite a bit of Spanish. Bach then I could even have a conversation, now I am struggling. So English is the closest to native foreign language I speak as well. And I also notice my pitch also changes to a bit higher when talking in English. I believe that is because this language has a different pronounciation than the other languages I speak, so I have to do that for a better pronounciation.

[@GZQ9]

@@hanli5416 that’s a good point about switching languages, especially when I’m going between Spanish and German, they aren’t super different structure wise but the sounds are pretty different

[@guitaro5000]

Coming up next: surprising blind people with spoken Braille.

[@JeccoOnIOS]

😂

[@aryaveersingh6070]

👀

[@teliph3U]

No, he rubs it in their back. A magnificent skill he learnt from the countless massage lessons he took.

[@paulmcdonough1093]

thats just daft now

[@The_DC_Kid]

You say that only bc you know they can't see your comment. Like saying whatever you want behind a deaf person's back, or stepping on the feet of someone with paralyzed legs. I feel ashamed of myself for thinking these things but they just sort of popped into my head. Not my fault if I have a vivid imagination. Pity me.

[@jc8254]

It’s funny how they become so friendly when they know you speak their language. It’s a huge sign of respect for the culture to them I’m sure

[@turkeyman631]

Just go from another day working to such a surprising moment. Love it and wish I worked harder in my language classes in school.

[@Omarized160]

Until they think you only speak their language for a wife in their country

[@322210527]

It's more comforting to have someone completely random speak your language

[@aa-md4qr]

They are just racist

[@alexanderredhorse1297]

@@aa-md4qr dont even get me start on parisians and how the pretend not to understand french canadians. the arrogance is incredible

[@macwolf2863]

I genuinely almost cried when you spoke Na-Dené. It's a shame how our languages are dying and to hear someone learning them truly warms my heart.

[@walker3861]

make a channel and start teaching people ur language

[@cpmvmaker1]

@@walker3861 no, for real though

[@ct5625]

I love how the Nigerian lady immediately wanted to play along and prompt you into more conversation, what a lovely spirit.

[@kadennelms8419]

I have a coworker from the Congo. She’s been teaching me French. I said it once and now anytime I see her it’s a quick lesson

[@ThereCouldBeYourAds]

That handshake in the end almost broke his arm

[@tylerstanley7155]

Yes! That was awesome! Great people! Love this video!

[@christophersantos730]

I like that he doesn’t just go in and talk, he always supports and buys something haha

[@xzfuse6685]

Why wouldnt he buy something he earns thousands of dollars each video

[@teezrodeo9278]

@@xzfuse6685 he earns a lot more from his sponorships

[@lance_wavy]

@@xzfuse6685 i mean atleast he earns his bread by doing something really meaningful and working really hard to sharpen his talents. Unlike many other "influencers" that earns millions doing superficial stuff.

[@Liiijuh]

@@xzfuse6685 There's a lot of rich people that would care less to support. Your statement makes no sense. It doesn't matter how much money they make. It's the kindness in their heart.

[@xzfuse6685]

I am not saying he does not do it out of the kindness in his heart, I meant that he would not have any content if he did not buy anything which he obviously would buy something because the amount of money he gets every video and sponsor. Because that is his content that is how he makes money. No random rich person would buy stuff because they don't care, You're right! But this is HIS content.

[@m-sama2140]

“If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart.” -Nelson Mandela

[@bigsteve417]

brother this world is unfair and unjust. You're in grave danger, please listen to me. Love your mother she won't be here forever, on December 10th your life will change forever I beg you to becareful. I'm praying you brother and I'm so sorry

[@nach0699]

@@bigsteve417 wtf

[@crowthekrow2117]

@@nach0699 The prophet has spoken.

[@AtomicBoom227]

Is ya mom alright?

[@qualjusmagalgus7744]

how is your mom doing

[@underpressure4852]

When you realize that 90% of foreign people side eyeing you would like to talk to you but can't. It's funny how people open up once you speak their language, and amazing once conversation gets flowing.

[@TheCrazedJosh]

I love how friendly everyone is even when he messes up. I think it means a lot to them that he actually took the time to try!

[@MochaHammy]

Except for the korean mom “your pronounciation isnt very good” … like bruh

[@execute6200]

@@MochaHammy she is just being honest dude. what was she supposed to say

[@chadc5184]

@Mocha Hammy that's important information to give when you just started learning lol. You can know all the sentence structure and vocabulary you want, but if your pronunciation is off you'll still have trouble communicating.

[@mobge3904]

Do you expect them to punch him in the face whenever he gets a word wrong?

[@3chodabs195]

@@MochaHammy he literally asked were they supposed to lie? Fuck we gotta stop handing out participation trophies it’s perfectly to not be good at first as long as ur trying

[@chocolatbownie35]

The Korean ladies were so wholesome T-T "How is my pronunciation?" "Not good, but keep learning :) "

[@unseenhero9726]

One of ‘em had the hots for him lol

[@mahatmaniggandhi2898]

@@unseenhero9726 "but he wouldn't take off his shoes in her dad's house because of the foot odor..."

[@lance_wavy]

@@unseenhero9726 exactly my thoughts 😂 it's cute though

[@Fantom-Array]

Koreans are definitely blunt. I should know, my mother's korean haha

[@ibra673]

@@Fantom-Array nice, you speak Korean?

[@googane7755]

It's ridiculous just how diverse New York is. You can literally walk outside and practise speaking the language you're learning with native speakers wherever you want.

[@alexandersveryown4760]

Kinda the same way as you can in LA.

[@mddeii2065]

Am not american and i literally though he was traveling between countries I feel jealous I can't imagine how is it to explore different cultures from the world without leaving your city. America is such a unique place I hope i at least get to visit it someday.

[@ericayala7387]

Wait he was in ny the whole time?!?

[@ericayala7387]

@@alexandersveryown4760 but ny is literally the most culturally diverse city in the world

[@ericayala7387]

Nvm I lied

[@ApexGale]

I appreciate my Algerian brothers for being so supportive of you, Xiaoma! Arabic is such a tricky language to speak and each Arabic speaking country pretty much speaks their own dialect of it with their own spin on things. If you're ever interested, Algerian Arabic has a lot of French in it

[@TreyDZd]

Is that because of the French colonies that were once there?

[@ApexGale]

@@TreyDZd it's because the colonies pretty much forced algerians to learn french. it was the mandatory language in many schools

[@zain-1932]

@@TreyDZd yes it’s the same with moroccan

[@alex8fish]

Yeah I'm learning some Lebanese arabic too and it also does

[@MissCarlyJoy]

The lady's smile when she learns he speaks Tagalog is sooooo contagious!

[@lance_wavy]

Right??? Filipinos really are happy people.

[@InvertedFreeSolo]

Seriously you can see her beaming through the mask

[@shiv.patel1017]

you can’t even see her smile behind that damn mask

[@Whatgivesyoupurpose]

@@lance_wavy proud to be filipino man

[@InvertedFreeSolo]

@@shiv.patel1017 you can tell she is smiling by looking at the rest of her face. If you can't then you have problems reading human emotion

[@srodriguez721]

Taking the time to learn someone’s language shows a deep respect. When someone communicates with you in your native tongue you feel seen.

[@nacht3675]

If a random American or European starts speaking arabic they'll have all my respect

[@lilylomcari1750]

You know what’s great...not only does he learn how to speak the language BUT he also knows what people are asking him as well. That’s impressive! He’s not just speaking it to speak it he’s also able to hold a conversation.

[@theoisme]

Yeah! Im learning thai and after over 100 words/phrases I felt good, watched a few videos of basic greetings and conversation and i was lost immediately 😂 long way to go!

[@sandy_sd10]

@@theoisme thai people are the kindest people they will help you.

[@Sonkens]

@@theoisme do u imerse yourself in thai media? Podcasts tv Sports broadcasts News talkshows music etc, even if you only pick up a word or two in a sentence in the beginning after a while you'll start picking up more and more unconsciously

[@ravinereedy204]

Do people just learn languages not to have conversations? lol I see people learning multiple languages all the time, I suppose I have always wondered how they go about that. Ive spent 3 years learning Japanese and I couldnt imagine how peoole could juggle up to 10 languages!!

[@Pes._]

@@ravinereedy204 the biggest top I've heard for learning a language is simply doing it. Find someone whose fluent or atleast much more skilled then you sit down and talk to em

[@SirWallton]

This really is my "feel good" account. It's amazing to see how much people glow up as soon as Ari starts to speak in their language

[@mre695]

My favorite was yoruba. The ENTIRE vibe changed when he started speaking their language. It was beautiful

[@harry9828]

Went from stranger to friend immediately

[@karlquenzer8194]

my favorite was when filipino boy transformed into the last airbender

[@navaryn2938]

I love how they all stare in disbelief

[@Tohdette]

This is proof that language alone can bring people closer, you can clearly see how much more comfortable they get when they see him speaking their language...its that sense of familiarity and trust.

[@jeksty9118]

This guy definitely is a person that can bring peace to the whole world just by speaking multiple languages. He deserves huge respect!

[@OCD-GIRL]

Kan han tale dansk?

[@i-bigjimmy-i2516]

It's very impressive, but I'm not sure I'd go so far as to say that he can definitely bring peace to the whole world 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@fancyjello]

true

[@JlmelegenderneVikingerne]

@@OCD-GIRL tror jeg sku ikke

[@OCD-GIRL]

@@JlmelegenderneVikingerne Det danske sprog er sgu heller ikke nem at lære.

[@Kitsu-vk3of]

Whenever I see someone with a neat talent in public, it’s always on my mind for the rest of the day. These people were probably real shocked

[@rumble4114]

When the guy you just met says "I'm so proud of you", you know you're doing the right thing. Xiaoma has a gift and he's sharing it with the world.

[@josesousa1059]

The Korean ladies with the "Your pronunciation isn't good", ahahah, can't beat Asian brutal honesty

[@noneofyourbeeswax01]

On the upside however, they did think he was cute! :)

[@hannahwalmer1124]

"Asian" honesty? There is no such thing as "asian" culture. There's Korean, Iranian, Japanese, Kazakh etc culture, but not Asian. So, you mean, Korean honesty.

[@josesousa1059]

@@hannahwalmer1124 yes, there is. Not as restrictive as a country's but there is. Denying it is being dumb. I could restrict it a bit but Japan/Korea/China are well know for this brutal honesty. Indian, for example, not so much. Well, only thing you can say is that I'm illiterate because I can't get a better word to restrict my aim at these 3 countries.

[@hannahwalmer1124]

@@josesousa1059 You just made my point, 3 countries out of the 40+ in Asia is not the whole continent. That is not "Asian" culture. That'd be like taking England and Scotland and saying "European culture". It doesn't work like that. It's Korean culture to be honest like that, yes. In Japanese culture, typically it is the exact opposite. It'll drive you nuts at times with how often they beat around the bush. I can't speak for Chinese culture, as I am unfamiliar with it, but I know that because the country is so big, it varies from north to south. Basically, you can't just lump everything into one basket. It's inaccurate.

[@rohitchaoji]

@@hannahwalmer1124 I know what you mean exactly, but there is some truth to this "Asian culture" thing. As an Indian, I feel like the cultures in this country are closer to central, east and south-east Asia, than they are to those Europe, Africa or Americas. Lots of similar traditions and customs.

[@GrandDaddyCough]

Remember that celebrating a foreign culture by wearing, learning or visiting them isn't taking away from the group. It's keeping cultures and languages alive that are, otherwise, being phased out. So don't let someone tell you to not experience how another lives, embrace it and love it

[@Hotshot2414]

I think people from African cultures have some of the most wholesome reactions when they recognize the rare occurrence of someone speaking their language, or with similar experiences. The way all those heads quickly turned when speaking to the Nigerians is one of the sweetest things!

[@하늘relke]

Same thing in South Africa, many of my family members speak Zulu and the second they start talking people just get crazy excited!

[@BattleStar_Yolettica]

she gave him the name Olofemi and i worked with a Nigerian woman named Olufemi. She said names starting with Olu are very popular.

[@JoCaTen]

@@BattleStar_Yolettica doesn't olu mean something like lord or god?

[@vanquisher4700]

@@JoCaTen Yeah, the top god in Yoruba myhtology is Olorun after all, so much like how ancient norse people named their children according to their respective gods, if you were from a warrior family your name would start with thor, thors, thorkell, thorfinn and such, maybe Yoruba people do the same!

[@Sammie551]

It's the least expected

[@Typhooone]

Learning the language probably isnt the hard part, the hard part is remembering them so you can speak all of them fluently.

[@voidinheritant]

that’s why it’s such an advantage living in such a multicultural area, so many people to practice with!

[@sirkid8553]

Completely agree, this is why living in a very diverse city is so essential to anyone learning different languages. That’s the great thing about NYC, you can literally be in different places around the world, yet, be in the same city. This doesn’t work in places like Utah, Ohio, Idaho… Personally, I think it’s very rewarding living in a place that is rich in different cultures. We can all learn so much from each other, and appreciate our differences.

[@jaconessjaconess7834]

can't do both 😂

[@swimfan752]

Lol both are the hard parts wdym

[@cea-jaymales8031]

Pretty sure remembering is learning.

[@Blackdragon99omfg]

I wish I had this man’s grasp of language. It’s spectacular. If more people worldwide did, it’d be a better world.

[@imsittingonmars]

@@SkyoffRunes We should, honestly. I think there should be an international sign language

[@YEDxFILMS]

It’d probably be a better world to come to a singular united language but that of course rids us of culture unfortunately

[@superchargedhelium956]

It’s not to hard to know enough to converse basically in many languages, but it is easier if you live in a place like New York, LA, Houston, etc. where you can find an extremely wide range of immigrants.

[@knotpye4214]

Language learning is a skill. It's actually the same skills used in learning history and music so if you're good at those or know how to memorize and practice well you'll excel at language

[@tabifiedler6944]

Language learning skills aren’t something you’re born with. Anyone can learn with enough practice and immersion!

[@FrancescaFrancesca]

The smile that comes across their face the moment they hear you speak their language is absolutely beautiful. It’s so pure and full of joy. It makes my heart feel so warm to see humans interacting in this way. Just wholesome.

[@Wulfen109]

Honestly, this is probably one of THE most respectful things you can do as a foreigner

[@Sammie551]

Yeah the way people are patriotic makes them excited

[@SalmonFeet]

I agree, it’s always makes me respect a tourist or an immigrant when they take the time to learn English, really goes to show how much they care.

[@cpp3221]

Yep, and that also can be vital in certain countries. In France for exemple the peoples are VERY rude if you don't know at least one word or two of French to show you care.

[@romainbruchet5818]

@@cpp3221 i'm French and can speak English fluently, whenever I meet a foreigner i'll speak English if that makes it easy for him but a "Bonjour" or a "merci" is always appreciated.

[@marshmallowblaster]

@@xplicitfishin I'll bust out some Cajun French and really get a reaction 🤣

[@Chubbs]

you bring so much love with these videos bro, thank you

[@ash2730]

Dead channel

[@sloughman2180]

Absolutely with so much sh1t going on.

[@calebhiggins9681]

@@ash2730 unnecessary and rude

[@doublea1147]

Chubbs wtf I miss your videos man

[@GM-qr9vl]

Ok

[@WouldntULikeToKnow.]

As a US citizen living in Germany and trying to learn the language, this is astonishing. I wish I had a fraction of your talent.

[@julessaviour5931]

Bin auch ein Ami in Deutschland. Deutsch ist eigentlich sehr einfach zu lernen. Viel einfacher als Chinesisch oder sowas :)

[@Nanu07iscool]

viel Erfolg! Das kommt schon!

[@skinlesswalnut6259]

@@aodhanholmes9679 i don't speak German but you're wishing him success right? Good ol' Google translate lol

[@AlvinSeville1]

viel spaß beim deutsch lernen! 

[@abo_3535]

@@aodhanholmes9679love for you and for germany much love

[@Here_4_comments]

This is crazy I grew up in Southern California and I still speak broken Spanish at best. This guy is amazing I’m thoroughly impressed. The smile he creates for the people, I’m sure it’s a rarity for most of those dialects to hear someone other than their family speak to them in their language. So awesome I’m jealous for sure.

[@Buddhapyro]

Meh I don’t care for learning other languages for I’m not going or really meeting or associating with those whose isn’t their first language

[@al3617]

Honestly, my favorite part about this channel, and this video in particular: Xiaoman is the prime example of how America is supposed to be. A melting pot of different cultures and languages. Some people get angry when they hear different languages, yet this man decided he'll just learn all of them and the instant connections he makes with people is truly heartwarming. Proof that when we embrace each others differences, there can be peace.

[@kimmiewise1044]

Though this is mostly brought on by the immigrants themselves not really melting but instead sticking themselves at the edge of the pot and remaining unmixed clumps. For instance he has a set of videos where he goes to these parallel societies and speaks English in his American accent the entire time pretending to be a dumb American until the people around his start to talk behind his back thinking he doesn’t understand. This is obviously purposely denying a third person the ability to communicate by shutting off what you think is his only means to communicate which is English. It’s only when her reveals that he can completely understand them that they become so much warmer and open to him. Instead of trying to communicate they purposely exclude themselves from the dominant language and culture the reap the benefits despite being perfectly capable of assimilating instead. This is what annoys people. If someone can’t speak English at all, a majority of Americans are very accommodating and understanding but when you can communicate to Americans but simply choose not to in favor of trying to backstab them when you think they aren’t looking, then you are an asshole. The problem is that this backstabbing behavior is encouraged by many immigrants which leads to Americans to become less trustworthy of a person’s intentions in not speaking English. Is that lady only speaking Tagalog because she doesn’t know English? Or is she not speaking English because she is talking mad shit about my shoes and wants to hide it? And all of this is coming from the first generation immigrant of the Philippines. I find it very annoying when my mom, a Philippine native, will speak Tagalog in public because I Recognize that to those who don’t understand, it looks like she’s trying to talk shit when in reality she’s only talking shit about me. “Why can’t you were your nice clothes like that girl?” I correct her about that kind of thing a lot and she and all of her friends who are also immigrants from Japan, Thailand, Korea, Vietnam, Singapore…All of them understand that it looks bad. Which is why we all work hard to speak English clearly. We want to communicate, not talk behind the backs of Americans until they learn our languages and sus us out.

[@kota69420]

I’ve never heard someone getting angry when they hear another language. I actually find it interesting

[@ivana2609]

@@kota69420 yeah, those things happen. I've seen a video of a karen getting mad when they hear a foreigner speak a non-english country, and told them to go back where they came from. It's really sad tbh

[@FirstNameLastName-il8ev]

@@kota69420 unfortunately, hearing people say "speak ENGLISH this is America!" (Sometimes they'll even say this outside of America, in the places itself that don't natively speak English, they just expect everyone to know it)

[@justaguy328]

This is often misunderstood. What you're describing isn't a melting pot. It's called a melting pot because all of the different people of the world come together and become one. It requires a basic level of assimilation, and that basic level is generally language and cultural customs. If you moved to Japan, you would need to learn the Japanese language, and if you move to America you need to learn English. That's not to say that you can't also speak another language but the language of the broader culture should become your language. That's where the melting comes in. You're describing what's called a "salad bowl" where everybody holds onto their language and culture and doesn't assimilate. The ingredients of a salad don't melt into one, they simply remain as they are and share the same area with other ingredients. It's a terrible way to structure society. It doesn't work well because it segregates society, doesn't create community, and breeds distrust among different groups. That's why the term melting pot is used.

[@memedowsss]

Seeing people's reactions to him speaking their native language totally makes me get why he does it.

[@navaryn2938]

I just love arabic, the fact that "peace be with you" is the standard salute just barely hints at how poetic and complex that language is. It was a language of science and philosophy for a very long time.

[@Littlewing1977]

Most things attributed to arab empires actually came from the Persian Empire before.

[@insertsomethingfuni2617]

@@Littlewing1977 you can't deny the contributions Arabic scientists and especially astronomers and mathematicians have made though

[@jasonjr376]

@@insertsomethingfuni2617 i think they were the most medically advanced at one point too

[@insertsomethingfuni2617]

@@Littlewing1977 oh and since I'm back here, I noticed you're subscribed to a channel that peddles Islamophobic messages, so I wouldn't say you're the most qualified to speak on this.

[@Littlewing1977]

@@insertsomethingfuni2617 what channel is that?

[@pedrodesanti6266]

The most beautfull thing is that people looks gratefull when you learn their language

[@carlo1453]

I LOVE the fact he can speak Mayan!! My family is from the Yucatán peninsula and Mayan is so rare (at least from what I see). I only know a little bit, but talking to my elders when I visit my family is always such a beautiful experience!

[@potatobird52]

Right! I learned a few traditional stories/legends from a Mayan friend I made some years ago, and I’ve been learning Nahuatl because my great-grandmother was 100% Tlaxcalteca. It’s fun maintaining our native languages :)

[@thisisdavidvarela]

Bro as a Mexican I felt almost embarrased when he spoke in Mayan, you can tell it's so rare not even the lady speaks it, and perhaps understands it. I'm from the north so basically no native tongues are spoken here.

[@heathervenkat1414]

Just look at how many connections you've made with people from other cultures and backgrounds. I love it!

[@The_DC_Kid]

He walks into a room full of icy stares and then 5 minutes later he's practically family.

[@andypantsowen]

The respect you give by learning someone’s language…I just love watching people’s guard drop and become so immediately warm and friendly to you. They feel an immediate sense that you’re someone who cares enough to try.

[@keterbinah3091]

i love that magical moment when they hear their native language .its such a kind gesture from you.

[@alisigdeniz9286]

I love the Nigerians reactions, they’re so hyped when you start speaking there language. One of the best channels on KZbin.

[@DaveChuaa]

Yeah, although we usually say "Kumusta Ka" that's why it sounds different especially if you speak a little bit fast.

[@alexk1575]

I’m surprised other countries/brands haven’t reached out to you to travel to their country and speak their language to create content (unless they already have!). That would be awesome content to see.

[@summerhunny]

probably just covid

[@tahrynehpott1784]

He's done ads for Babbel! One of the only ads I'll never skip haha. It pops up all the time when I gotta watch ads in games, haha.

[@andymcgowan7384]

If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart. Nelson Mandela.

[@ratagris21]

Well said.

[@jakedanon3345]

This is actually the quote i picked for my senior quote

[@JuanGarnicaVera]

Mandela supported Fidel Castro. The infamous Cuban dictator.

[@andymcgowan7384]

@@JuanGarnicaVera Does that negate his words about the power of language? No, it doesn't at all.

[@JuanGarnicaVera]

@@andymcgowan7384 any word coming from a communist is BS

[@motheomotau3847]

Just seeing people keeping their guard and then, upon hearing their mother tongue, lighten up immediately brings me sheer utter joy.

[@chrishorton4929]

I learned German before we went to Austria in case we got stuck and as it transpired, everyone spoke perfect English! I didn't want to waste what I had learned so I tried my best to speak to people in German and whilst they mostly understood what I was saying, they were very receptive to my attempts - I even got discounted tickets for the Kunsthistorisches Museum!

[@jANMxRin]

xD nice bro, freut mich

[@Syhntax]

LOL

[@topicoo1808]

Ich wusste garnicht dass man so welche Rabatte bekommen kann lol. Vielen Dank das du versucht haßt, undere Sprache nicht zu vergessen :D

[@chrishorton4929]

@@topicoo1808 schüler Rabatte mein freund ;)

[@topicoo1808]

@@chrishorton4929 ohh verstehe, so welche hab ich auch öffters bekommen.

[@TacoStacks]

This guys speaks all these languages and I can barely speak one.

[@Chtigga]

He's not fluent in most of these languages.

[@erik61801]

American public education for ya..I feel ripped off

[@martiddy]

@@Chtigga Who cares?, he can still communicate with people

[@JonHop1]

@@martiddy Anyone can do this, its honestly quite easy, most of us just have no need to learn a foreign language, nor do most care enough to put the time and effort into a new language.. On the contrary, this guy makes a living trying new languages. If your living was based around it, anyone could do this.

[@martiddy]

@@JonHop1 Not everyone can do this, it requires a lot of practice. Also, is not that common to see someone to learn multiple languages that fast (even though is just enough for communication). Especially if you have never been familiar with that language before.

[@AJLapray]

Love the happiness you’re bringing to the world xiaoma! Thanks for letting us follow along!

[@goofalupus1436]

This is absolutely amazing to watch for so many reasons, but I can't help but have a little bit of a bittersweet feeling. People in these other cultures are completely FLOORED and so excited to see and hear an American taking the time to learn their language, even if it's just a little bit because they do not at all expect it. But when people from other cultures come to America they get publicly shamed for not speaking English FLUENTLY.

[@debatingcatholic5020]

I know! As an American who has a french language partner, I really enjoy hearing her speak english, and I have absolutely no idea why anyone (who probably doesn't speak anything more than English) would _shame_ someone else for not speaking two languages fluently

[@Sammie551]

Laughing at people when all they know is English 🤦‍♂️

[@goofalupus1436]

@@Sammie551 that’s not at all what I wrote but A+ for trying 👍

[@slinkerdeer]

If anyone goes to any country to live there, speaking the language is expected. You should not intentionally make life harder for others around you by not learning their language if you plan to live among them.

[@nathem7375]

People feel really respected when tourists speak their language. This guy is welcome everywhere! I would like to see you in Azerbaijan)

[@noahmaas1670]

I'm sure Moses would be proud of you for doing this; I think the whole language community would consider it a kind gesture to take up the mantle of his level ups and continue breaking down barriers by sharing culture and language. It could also serve as a way to ensure that his channel stays alive and people can continue being influenced by his work

[@MoistYoghurt]

rip Moses

[@unh0lyav3ng3r8]

I was writing a comment on mouse, but you said it better than I could. Miss you brother. Love to Arieh for showing me this beautiful corner of youtube.

[@drewwilliams1337]

First thing I thought when I saw the little flag pop up in the corner, carrying the torch for our boy Laoshu. I hope he does more.

[@ezrabrwn]

I thought of Moses too. Man, I miss him

[@holeymoley62]

I had no idea he had passed, that's so sad man. I wondered why I hadn't seen him for a while. RIP

[@blurplepie]

I just love the happiness this brought to people. Those smiles? You can't buy that kinda happiness. You gotta earn that.

[@realburglazofficial2613]

The thing I’ve noticed in learning another language is if you put the effort in to _use_ the language whenever you can and you make mistakes, the native speakers will do what they can to help you along, encourage and correct you. If you don’t put in the effort and ‘force’ the native speakers to speak your language they don’t want anything to do with speaking to you. Also, Arabic just a lovely language to speak, it’s very rhythmic.

[@بدوناسم-ل7ب9ف]

نعم أتفق معك 👍

[@tmvideosuk]

My favourite is the Nigerians, they are so amazed. It's heart warming to see you speak to people in their language, just show what you can do if you learn

[@dayeonchoi8011]

When he spoke Korean, I almost died lmao. He is so cute. Those korean grandmas really spittin facts lol.

[@JA-sk1ix]

This guy is so humble that he puts the clip of someone not understanding him first

[@JuanManuelLinaresBloggerDeNiro]

I'm a Spanish living in the Czech Republic, trying to learn Czech, which for us Latin languages speakers is quite a hell. But this video is the kind of motivation I need. Thanks for such amazing content and the respect for other cultures.

[@JamerTheProgrammer]

I fucking love these videos. Its impossible not to have a gigantic grin on your face the whole way through. As a Spanish learner, it feels awesome when you can connect with other people that arent expecting it!

[@edithdlp8045]

I am white and speak fluent Spanish. People are surprised when I speak fluent Spanish. I lived 8 years in Mexico from 4th grade to 12th grade. I came back to Los Angeles California.

[@ANSWERTHECALLOFJESUSCHRIST]

I'm Puerto Rican. It warms my heart every time someone who's not a native Spanish speaker just goes for it and talks to me in broken Spanish, whether asking for directions or just being friendly and greeting me. I automatically feel endeared to the person. It's so weird, as if they transcend a dimension. I feel them closer to my heart, and I'll always remember them.

[@pd6569]

In this video, the love and appreciation that poured out from the people in the Nigerian store was stunning and impactful. Keep up the great work

[@LucijaViviana]

I was about to comment something like that. The Nigerian people were so nice, I loved their interactions!

[@edithdlp8045]

I enjoyed the philippino lady, she was totally surprised 😲

[@noeliagutierrez4223]

Love how some of them don't realize he's speaking their language at first

[@clpen97]

So cool to see how people react, barriers are removed and a connection is made .

[@neilhiggins3167]

I love how proud everyone is when he makes the effort to speak their language, its instant respect

[@nicknaruto9]

unlike some American Karen and Kevin. got yelled when Im first travel to US. he told me "this is murica, learn how to speak better English before you got here"

[@shubhampawar8862]

K.O.

[@Sammie551]

That's exactly why I'm learning right now

[@noeliagutierrez4223]

I'm studying about immigrants in America and they go through so much struggle, and often feel like a fish out of water. If you want to help them feel like they do belong here try doing what this guy does and learn some phrases in their language. Even if it isn't perfect the gesture would mean a lot.

[@jaredf6205]

Next time I hear a Chinese person speak English, I’m going to make a huge deal about it immediately and question why they speak English and comment how great they are at English and tell everyone around me that this Chinese guy can speak English. They will be very happy with themselves for showing off their skills and post a video about it to Chinese KZbin about how they surprised native English speakers by speaking to them in their language! /s

[@noeliagutierrez4223]

@@jaredf6205 🤨?

[@Kaldurahm1]

@@noeliagutierrez4223 You know what he's doing. It's on purpose.

[@andrewdunbar828]

@@jaredf6205 Make sure you do it in China.

[@jaredf6205]

@@noeliagutierrez4223 it’s a joke on how different the situation would be if it were reversed because so many speak English as a second language.

[@sunflowergarden9794]

I feel like a proud mom. They become so friendly when they know you speak their language, It’s a huge sign of respect

[@peterchen632]

I wish I could speak 100 different languages and find 100 beautiful girlfriends

[@AW-qz4kk]

@@peterchen632 dont we all haha

[@ArtFreeman]

He is fantastic. He speak to many people in the world. It's great seeing how people open up when he speaks their language. If I had a choice of one super power I would want to speak all languages of the earth and be able to read and write as well.

[@Zedzilla2968]

It genuinely puts a smile on my face seeing these people so happy that someone is speaking their language for once, n taking the time to learn it. It inspired me, honestly.

[@DividedWeAllFall]

1:17 LMAO that boyfriend felt instantly under competition with you at that moment. That is hilarious. Your channel is a goldmine of content. You are amazing!!!

[@michellenunez76]

I mean it’s astonishing how far he has gone to interact with people that live in his city but what’s outstanding is his social skill like he just goes for it and gets to befriend so many people by showing respect and appreciation for another culture 👏👏👏👏👏

[@jeffrobodine8052]

These videos always make me smile. I love how happy and welcome it makes people feel away from home. 🙏

[@kennyroody]

There is just something about learning a language, then ordering and eating authentic food that makes me feel good. I love this and have always wanted to eat food from all over the world.

[@thegrinderman1090]

RIP Laoshu. Those videos are legendary. This feels like a continuation of his work. I hope you keep making these.

[@cheezeballer267]

wait who passed away?

[@cypotix1264]

mac n cheems! the original language master

[@opethdan2408]

Yess.. I miss Moses and his interactions and laughter. Glad the torch was passed over

[@cheezeballer267]

@@cypotix1264 damn

[@andy6477733157]

Wait WHAT

[@CRlMZlN]

Love the brotherly love shown at 9:14. We all may be separated by language barriers, but we're all human. ❤

[@Phyrefly6]

That was my favorite one. I love how they all turn and look at him.

[@MrIncogwastaken]

I'm convinced this man speaks every language

[@barletproductions]

The shear skill it requires to learn 15 languages and mostly fluently is just wow, and the fact you remember each is so insane

[@MisanthropicCurmudgeon]

How do we know he remembers? Not to be a hater or anything, but he seems to have such a tentative grasp of the basics on SOME of these, that I wouldn't be shocked if he forgot them

[@twopeople158]

@@MisanthropicCurmudgeon Yeah that would be understandable, you got to keep speaking the language to keep it up as well. It's still so amazing and makes me want to learn a whole lot of languages as well

[@danielgteaching1377]

Mostly fluently???

[@LPB19019]

@@MisanthropicCurmudgeon I agree but for example: he said he started learning korean one day before he spoke three full sentences and understood some questions the three ladies were asking him, all of this in a single day

[@tunes5077]

My dad spoke 12 languages. He had a knack for learning languages quickly and well. I wish I had the same talent. It's a skill that some people have naturally, like this young man. I love following him via these videos!

[@paulharper4196]

I've always understood that the more languages you know, the easier it is to pick new ones up. Which makes sense as xiaoma can rattle off conversations in languages he's barely started learning. I worked with a Brazilian for a few months and picked up bits of Portuguese, and now I work with an Italian and I'm picking up bit of his language as well its fun.

[@brokos3339]

im 15 and learning a second language now and its really really difficult i want to become a polyglot one day so i really hope everything after this is easier 😂

[@cake2531]

@@brokos3339 starting with easier languages can help a lot, even if it's not a language you're not very interested in currently. it will help you build learning techniques, and comfort and confidence with trying something new.

[@brokos3339]

@@cake2531 aprendo español ahora, es un poco fácil y me interesa

[@jacopoulivi6506]

Come va con l'italiano?

[@AD-df5tm]

It depends on the language. Many languages have the same origins so if you know one it will be easier to pick up others in the same family. Like, if you speak spanish then learning Italian or French will be easier. But knowing Italian or Spanish won't make learning Mandarin any easier.

[@royski1]

I would love to see you learn some Polish , there is a big Polish community in NYC , lots of opportunities to practice. Polish food is fantastic - golabki, bigos or the famous pierogi are a must try. A lot of other Polish shops and businesses to explore too. With all the difficult languages you learn , Polish should not be any trouble. Thanks for the videos Ari !

[@Wattywattybangbang]

Hm doesnt seem like he likes to learn European languages lol

[@VADemon]

@@Wattywattybangbang that's yet more impressive

[@jagoda8990]

I’d say to learn polish it’s very hard but it seems he does pretty well at grasping the harder languages so maybe, just maybe someday we can hear him speak polish

[@eLBee90]

u just need kurwa mac jebany pies and all polish love you

[@jagoda8990]

@mona I don’t think a video like this is a place to promote ur only fans

[@IDOLIZEDPAT]

As a filipino, you have my respect🔥🔥

[@WingoTribe704]

There’s a black guy that does this as well

[@valentinpoggio5389]

@@WingoTribe704 what's his channel?

[@WingoTribe704]

@@valentinpoggio5389 I can’t remember

[@solblaze77]

This man heard about Laoshu’s passing and went on a relentless rampage to keep this movement going.

[@readmycomment3157]

Wait what?!

[@the3dprintingbelgian]

@@readmycomment3157 you didnt know? He passed away a while ago

[@Bonethugs90]

@@readmycomment3157 unfortunately he died last year of complications from a heart attack I think!😞 Never been so sad about a death of a person I’ve never met😭

[@adamhufz9790]

@@readmycomment3157 yeah he passed away

[@RTBR_BTTL]

Who is laoshu?

[@MARCELDUCHAMP0_o]

It’s so amazing to see you speaking Navajo! I’m Navajo and live on the Navajo nation and I hear it so much by the elderly but sadly it’s a dying language. I don’t know how to speak it my father and his father can’t speak it either. The only person on my family who knew it was my great grandmother. It makes me so happy to see others speaking and learning about my language.

[@joemacinnis1972]

All people should be so proud of who they are! Everybody is truly unique and special. I truly love to learn from so many cultures. People are awesome

[@kapok7228]

This is some kind of crazy superpower! Blows me away…

[@alflorezaf]

This video actually made me emotional. Seeing how language can bring so many cultures together. This gives me hope in a divided world.

[@rosabbx]

As Moses would say “Time to level up” 😁

[@robertvalaskof7501]

Missin that guy man..

[@JordanJahW]

every time i remember laoshu505000 isn’t here anymore i get so sad. RIP Legend

[@rosabbx]

@@JordanJahW very talented Individual. I was rewatching his videos the other day, I love his laugh!

[@OliOliOliOliOli]

RIP, i miss that man

[@luccissimp7758]

RIP

[@sonnyanderson-smith5324]

Love how shocked they are and so respectful to you when you speak there language to them keep at it man bet you enjoy doing this so much

[@septicop]

It’s amazing that he can learn these languages so quickly. To be honest, Xiaoma was the reason I started to earn more languages. Currently learning 3 languages (Spanish, French, and Swedish) and I plan on learning more. Love the content, keep it up!

[@korozif4140]

Bon courage à toi

[@kevinsundelin8639]

Lycka till! Would love to help out in any way I can if you or anyone else would like to learn more about Swedish!

[@kevinsundelin8639]

@Henning Jag håller också på att lära mig Spanska och Ryska :) Det är svårt men jag vill jättegärna kunna prata åtminstone Spanska flytande.

[@alejandrotabilo2116]

Buena suerte!

[@TheOneAndOnlyEuca]

Es bueno ver que algunas personas en esta sección de comentarios intentan aprender español, lo bueno de aprender español es que podrás aprender la mayoría de las culturas provenientes de países sudamericanos. Yo mismo hablo con fluidez (como si me criaran estrictamente en una familia hispana) y es genial ver a personas como tú aprender más de un idioma. Saludos a ti!! Espero que te vuelvas mucho mejor a partir de ahora.

[@lzrzmnhff]

This makes me miss living in NYC so much! I miss getting to casually hear people speak these diverse languages, how a panople of foreign foods and music and culture are all around you, and how 99% of New Yorkers will be super cool to you if you're even just a little friendly with them.

[@tozzwang67]

Why did u move if u dont mind me asking

[@stefthorman8548]

@@tozzwang67 you do know NK is an shithole with outrageous rent prices, right?

[@jeremy3766]

@@stefthorman8548 no I actually didn’t realize the rents were high in North Korea. I guess even Pyongyang is not immune to gentrification.

[@jeremy3766]

People appreciate how he genuinely appreciates their culture and has made an effort to learn their language.

[@thegiantpumpkin5903]

This guy can literally speak at the very least, at basic conversational level after just a few weeks of learning a language. The man’s a language genius.

[@MegaDerpification]

I think the moments of excitement between them is just beautiful. Its a bonding between humans in the barest form, just a common understanding of communication!! This video just brings me happiness 🥹

[@jasonmacdonald2394]

That is one of the coolest things I have ever seen. It might seem like a small thing but it shows a lot of respect for other cultures and helps to unify people. My mother was from Belgium and she always said to show respect for others languages by at least trying to speak their language. Outstanding work sir.

[@BlackDogHair1]

It's unbelievable the things you can do when you learn, learn from others, history, culture, whatever it may be. The pure amazement of these people is pretty cool.

[@gates69]

The way people’s faces light up and they open up to him is just the best. A lot of people in the US would say these people are not friendly because they speak little or no English. But the minute he starts to speak to them in their language, their friendliness comes right to the surface ❤️

[@seanmoore1856]

Filipino lady was so friggin sweet and supportive

[@a_soldierz_genetics]

It’s so cool to see the folks facial expressions, once they hear you busy out their native language! They seem so happy to hear their language continue, especially in America

[@kalesalad.02]

This makes me want to learn more languages. The connections here are so beautiful.

[@MythicalSLIM]

That Yoruba one 😂 The synchronized turnaround was golden

[@afrotier]

What beautiful languages there are in this world. This is so great to experience, thanks for sharing dude.

[@triune_blades]

When you're on the other side of this interaction (i.e. American hearing a "foreigner" speak English) you subconsciously/consciously expect that person to speak your language because they're in YOUR home country. But, when you're a "foreigner" in America and you hear an American speak YOUR language, it's almost unheard of and is a wonderful thing. There's a special bond created. I wish I was better at learning other languages. This man has a gift and I'm so happy that he's not wasting it. These videos show that there's still hope for us as humans. God bless!

[@HaleJayRo]

Yeah I agree! English is just so widely spoken that it’s not often a pleasant surprise like in this video to hear a non-native speaker speaking it, but still when I’m places abroad (as an American) where there aren’t many English speakers it feels so nice to speak to someone in English and I definitely appreciate it so I can’t imagine how it feels to speak a less common language and hear someone speaking it! Definitely motivates me to learn more languages as well