Being a multilingual, I do feel that I think and feel differently in my languages. And my circle and research suggest so as well.
The phenomenon of thinking differently in different languages is known as "linguistic relativity" or the "Sapir-Whorf hypothesis." It suggests that the language we speak can shape and influence our thoughts, perceptions, and cognitive processes. Here are some ways in which multilinguals may think differently in their different languages:
Cultural worldview: Each language is embedded in a specific cultural context, and the cultural values and norms associated with each language can influence how multilingual individuals perceive the world. Different languages may have unique ways of expressing concepts and categorizing experiences, leading to variations in cognitive patterns and worldview.
Emotions and expression: Some languages may have words or expressions that capture certain emotions more precisely than others. Multilinguals may experience different emotional nuances and may find it easier to express specific emotions in one language compared to another.
Conceptualization: The structure and vocabulary of languages can influence how multilinguals conceptualize and describe experiences. Certain languages may have words or concepts that are not directly translatable into other languages, leading to differences in how thoughts and ideas are expressed.
Perspective-taking: Multilingual individuals may adopt different perspectives and modes of thinking when using different languages. Each language may encourage a particular way of thinking or problem-solving, leading to cognitive flexibility and adaptability.
Language Alter Ego and identity: Language is closely tied to personality and cultural identity, and multilinguals may experience shifts in their sense of self and identity when using different languages. Each language may evoke different cultural associations and social roles, influencing how multilinguals perceive themselves and others.
Code-switching and code-blending: Multilinguals may code-switch or code-blend between languages, incorporating elements of one language into another. This blending of languages can lead to unique cognitive processes and creative linguistic expressions.
Linguistic habits: Multilinguals may develop different linguistic habits and speech patterns in each language, affecting how they approach and frame their thoughts in that particular language.
Language proficiency: Differences in language proficiency can also impact cognitive processes. Multilinguals may feel more comfortable and proficient in expressing certain thoughts or engaging in specific activities in one language over another.
I do remember that the influence of language on thought is a subject of ongoing research and debate in the field of linguistics and cognitive science. Still, the outlined empirical experiences and latest research suggest that multilinguals think differently in their languages.
The phenomenon of thinking differently in different languages is known as "linguistic relativity" or the "Sapir-Whorf hypothesis." It suggests that the language we speak can shape and influence our thoughts, perceptions, and cognitive processes. Here are some ways in which multilinguals may think differently in their different languages:
Cultural worldview: Each language is embedded in a specific cultural context, and the cultural values and norms associated with each language can influence how multilingual individuals perceive the world. Different languages may have unique ways of expressing concepts and categorizing experiences, leading to variations in cognitive patterns and worldview.
Emotions and expression: Some languages may have words or expressions that capture certain emotions more precisely than others. Multilinguals may experience different emotional nuances and may find it easier to express specific emotions in one language compared to another.
Conceptualization: The structure and vocabulary of languages can influence how multilinguals conceptualize and describe experiences. Certain languages may have words or concepts that are not directly translatable into other languages, leading to differences in how thoughts and ideas are expressed.
Perspective-taking: Multilingual individuals may adopt different perspectives and modes of thinking when using different languages. Each language may encourage a particular way of thinking or problem-solving, leading to cognitive flexibility and adaptability.
Language Alter Ego and identity: Language is closely tied to personality and cultural identity, and multilinguals may experience shifts in their sense of self and identity when using different languages. Each language may evoke different cultural associations and social roles, influencing how multilinguals perceive themselves and others.
Code-switching and code-blending: Multilinguals may code-switch or code-blend between languages, incorporating elements of one language into another. This blending of languages can lead to unique cognitive processes and creative linguistic expressions.
Linguistic habits: Multilinguals may develop different linguistic habits and speech patterns in each language, affecting how they approach and frame their thoughts in that particular language.
Language proficiency: Differences in language proficiency can also impact cognitive processes. Multilinguals may feel more comfortable and proficient in expressing certain thoughts or engaging in specific activities in one language over another.
I do remember that the influence of language on thought is a subject of ongoing research and debate in the field of linguistics and cognitive science. Still, the outlined empirical experiences and latest research suggest that multilinguals think differently in their languages.