Lily
Is it possible to learn scientific terms in another language while studying science in English?
I am already bilingual (speak English and Spanish), but my Spanish-speaking abilities still lie a lot more on the informal/conversational side rather than formal/technical. I know that just knowing another language will benefit me no matter what, but I feel that it won't help me as much in my career unless I can actually speak professionally in either language. Is there a feasible way of learning the new terms in Spanish alongside the English ones without feeling like I'm overloading my brain? Or should I leave that more for outside the school year/after graduating?
#science #stem #women-in-stem #language #foreign-languages #study #studying #studying-tips
2 answers
Roger Little
Roger’s Answer
I am not sure exactly what your question is but if I understand you correctly there is good news. Most science terms are used in the language in which they are discovered or invented (there are exceptions). For example in molecular biology many of the terms in English are used in foreign languages in their English form (or very similar). I would focus on learning the language basics and when you are to the point you can converse in Spanish you can begin exploring the vocabulary for your type of science.
Oh, I didn't know that! Sounds like it'll be a little easier to learn the corresponding Spanish terms than I had expected. (Yes, I definitely want to get better at the language in general before venturing into using harder vocabulary, but I am getting there!) Thank you for replying!
Lily
Shelley Notarnicola
Shelley’s Answer
Google translate has gotten really good. You can probably start typing some of the scientific terms into Google translate to familiarize yourself with the vocabulary.
Also, scientific terms generally use Latin as a base. So the Spanish word is not going to be too far off for many words. It will be about getting the pronunciation and accent correct.
For work purposes, conversational Spanish will likely not be enough. Make sure that you learn writing and conjugation. A lot of work is done via email.