As a rule, foreigners in Turkey are not expected to be able to speak any Turkish. Courtesy and respect are taken very seriously. Being able to listen well is important, especially because frankness and direct confrontation are less prevalent: a "NO" is usually not spoken out loud. A refusal should always be accompanied by regret and reasoning. Compliance with these basic rules will allow a professional communication in a friendly and hearty atmosphere.
The Turkish language
Turkish is one of the ural-altaic languages and, within these languages, one of the Turk languages. In the course of history, Turkish was strongly influenced by Arabic, Persian, modern Greek, Latin, Italian and, in the technical area, by French.
Knowledge of foreign languagesis naturally more prevalent in cities than in rural areas and also exists more in younger than in older people. English is the leading foreign language, followed by German. Knowledge of other languages such as French or Italian is rare.
Even though there are similarities with Germany as far as body language and gestures are concerned, everyday life is characterised by a series of important differences as well. The differences become clear for instance, as far as dress-code, greetings or taboo topics are concerned.
More on the Turkish language
