English as a Second Language

Both Spanish and English are the official languages of Puerto Rico, but Spanish is without a doubt the dominant language, as the majority of the people in Puerto Rico are not proficient in English. Fewer than 20 percent of Puerto Ricans speak English fluently, according to the 1990 U.S. Census.

Regardless the fact that Puerto Ricans are taught English as a second language from kindergarten through high school, communicating in English can be a little difficult at times. Sometimes you will find yourself surrounded by Spanish speakers only. There is much diversity in the level of English proficiency.

Body Language and Gestures

Language is more than just words, it is the position of one's body, the look on their face, and their body's motion.

Puerto Ricans are known for their friendliness and warmth. Hand gestures and movements are often used in daily conversation. Puerto Ricans tend to interrupt each other frequently, sometimes even finish the other's thought and are not upset when this occurs.

Many Puerto Ricans will stand fairly close to one another in social settings. In contrast, North Americans and many Europeans believe that people should stand about an arm's length from one another. Moving away from a counterpart may be considered offensive or insulting.

A warm and friendly handshake is the customary form of greeting, but often a nod of the head is sufficient. Men who are close friends will embrace, and women friends will engage in a brief hug and a kiss on the cheek.

Address people by a title, such as Señor, Señora, Professor and Doctor when first introduced or in formal situations. Puerto Ricans have two surnames: one from their father, which is listed first, followed by one from their mother.

Other Resources

• All's Well That Ends Well: A Lesson in Suffixes