I couldn't agree with this more. It's another way to inject humor into a situation, which is nearly always appreciated. As an American living in Germany who speaks (almost) perfect German, I have taken what might be perceived as a weakness - my occasional lack of knowledge of the culture - and turned it into an advantage. I have conducted many training sessions in German for Germans, and once in a while, I can't find the right word.

So I appeal to the participants: "Help me out, guys, German is such a tough language! What's the word for..." at which point the group breaks out laughing and supplies me with the correct expression. This is very endearing and encouraging to the attendees. It shows them that you don't have to be perfect and don't have to hide the fact that you're not. Doing things like this helps others open up, too, and makes the atmosphere more authentic and perhaps even more important, more fun!