One good reason for people to learn a foreign language is work. If your work involves regular contact with (13) ________ of foreign languages, being able to talk to them in their own languages will help you to communicate with them. It may also help you to make sales and to negotiate and secure contracts. Knowledge of foreign language may also increase your chances of (14) ________ a new job, getting a promotion or a transfer overseas, or of going on foreign business (15) ________.
Many English-speaking business people don’t bother to learn other languages because they believe (16) ________ most of the people they do business with in foreign countries can speak English, and if they don’t speak English, interpreters can help. The (17) ________ of foreign language knowledge puts the English speakers at a disadvantage. In meetings, for example, the people on the other side can discuss things among themselves in their own language without the English speakers understanding, and using interpreters slows everything down. In any socialising after the meetings, the locals will probably (18) ________ more comfortable using their own language rather than English.
13. A. talkers B. sayers C. tellers D. speakers
14. A. looking B. finding C. applying D. offering
15. A. trips B. journeys C. tours D. holidays
16. A. what B. when C. that D. how
17. A. use B. study C. fluency D. lack
18. A. know B. feel C. behave D. come