4 tips for casual conversations with native English speakers

Most native English speakers are helpful, friendly people that want to help non-native learners and travelers whenever they can. But its important to remember two things when speaking with them.

1. Accents can be difficult to understand.
2. Slang and idioms are cultural and vary in different cultures.

So here are a few tips to help you communicate with native English speakers who you may meet in an informal, non-professional setting.

• Speak clearly when saying words that are difficult to pronounce.

Speaking in a tone of voice louder than a whisper but softer than a shout will make hearing easier, which will help with understanding what is said.

• Remember to speak at a moderate pace.

It is easy to start speaking quickly when you are nervous, but remember that if you speak too quickly, the person might have difficulty understanding you. Slower is better than faster, but too slow can cause impatience and lack of attention on the part of the listener.

• Don’t be embarrassed if you are asked to repeat something.

If you are asked to repeate yourself, don’t feel embarrassed. Your English is probably fine, but remember, that if a listener is not used to an accent, it can be difficult to understand. Also, different cultures express themselves using idioms and slang in very different ways which can also add to confusion.

At the same time, don’t be afraid to ask the person to repeat themselves or use different words so that you can understand. Slang, idioms and accents can make it difficult for even native English speakers to understand other natives, so don’t feel bad about asking someone to repeat themselves.

• Be confident!

You are speaking a second language and communicating. If you are proud and confident of your accomplishments, it will show when you speak with others.

Communication can create many wonderful opportunities but its important to remember to speak clearly, at a moderate rate, and in a confident manner. If you are asked to repeat something, its ok. It might just mean that the person you are talking to isn’t used to your accent or how you express yourself. Happy communicating in English.

3 ways to improve your English while watching TV

While many people don’t think that watching TV is useful for studying, there are several things that you can do while watching your favorite English language show which will help you speak, understand and read English better.

1. Watch your favorite show in English

Instead of listening in your native language, listen to your favorite English language show in English. When the show is over, test yourself to see how much of the show that you understood. If this is too hard, you can always watch with subtitles.

By listening in English, you will practice listening comprehension. TV shows have a lot of idioms, expressions, and slang, so you can relax, and learn new vocabulary at the same time.

2. Watch your favorite show with English subtitles

Turn off the sound, and turn on English subtitles of your favorite show. Because the words quickly dissapear, your reading speed and comprehension will improve quickly.

By doing this, you will train yourself for timed reading tests like TOEIC and TOEFL.

3. Practice talking like your favorite TV star

Many TV shows require that their actors speak in a very flat or neutral American or British accent. If you want to improve your pronounciation, you should watch a TV show several times and then record yourself impersonating the character.

By recording yourself and trying to copy your favorite character’s voice you will improve your accent and make all of your friends jealous.