Which is correct???

Yesterday, I had a student tell me that another English speaker told him “I can understand” is not a natural expression in English.

Well this may be true. In the United States, I think most people would just say, “I understand”. But “I can understand” is also correct right?

My answer to this situation is this,

I do believe in the United States and maybe some other countries, “I understand” is the most natural way for this expression. However, that does not mean it is the most natural expression in other countries. English is now a global language. Many different countries now speak English and use very different expressions. So who is right and who is wrong?? Everyone is right and wrong. That is not important. The most important thing is can we communicate as a global society? I believe the answer is yes. However, to do this we need to be open to new expressions and understand how different cultures use the language. When students make a big error in grammar or vocabulary usage, I usually quickly point that out. However, small differences in expression usage I do not. This is because it is used, and it is understood in other areas.

However if the expression is one I have never heard or completely wrong, I tell the student this and give them direction for another expression to use. Everyone has their own style of speaking. It’s important to develop that. If a student has an interest in sounding like a native American speaker, I am always happy to help them. I do help students say things and sound as natural as possible. But being able to communicate is the most important part of speaking. I urge all English students to speak. Don’t be shy. Everyone speaks English differently and most importantly, everyone makes mistakes! LIVE and LEARN.