(and what to say instead)
1. “Oh, [insert Americanized version or pronunciation of their name here] is so much easier to say!”
What to say instead:
- “Could you break down the pronunciation, please?”
If someone offers the Americanized version or pronunciation of their name, you can say:
- “I can call you that if you’d like, but if you ever change your mind let me know and I’d be more than happy to learn the pronunciation.”
2. “That’s going to take some time to learn”
What to say instead:
- “I might not get it right now, but I will practice.”
3. [Before reading their name] “Oh I know I’m going to mess this up…”
What to say instead:
- “I’m not sure how to pronounce this name, could someone help me? It’s spelled…”
To those that have “difficult to pronounce names,” don’t feel the need to compromise your name for the comfort of others. Your name deserves to be said correctly.
I would like to recognize Bob Bridge in this post. Thank you for always practicing the pronunciation of my name.
