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How to learn spoken English?
Hi, everybody! I'm from Ukraine. I want to learn spoken English language and use it in my life. I've been learning English for 5 years. Therefore I can read, translate in English, but have some problems with spoken language. Please, help me to improve my language. I'm looking forward to your answer. Thanks.
11 Answers
- cantilena91Lv 78 years agoFavorite Answer
This is what you can do in order to improve your language skills (especially if English is not your native language):
Actually, broadening/improving one's language skills is a very broad concept, it should be done in more than one ways at the same time which is highly recommended. One can NOT become better ONLY in one area, say, speaking, one MUST improve skills in ALL dimensions of the language!
Learning language well requires being as active as possible and making the learning as FUN for oneself as possible. Taking lessons is always important, but equally important are these:
1) Listen/watch: Keep listening to internet radio stations like BBC, watch TV shows in English (use only subtitles, NOT voice dubbing in case you are not a native English speaker!), etc.
2) Write/communicate: Try to find discussion forums from the web about things that you find interesting and FUN (music/various artists, hobbies, etc.) and start communicating there with other people using only English. Start using instant messaging systems in case you find some new friends or start emailing them. Please do NOT be afraid of making mistakes or hesitating, because even native speakers do make mistakes and do hesitate at times! The more you enjoy communicating, the better!
3) Buy yourself a proper dictionary, and each time when you see a strange word that you do not understand, look it up. Putting words into their CONTEXT is one of the best ways to broaden one's vocabulary and grammar knowledge, the more you read and write the better. Memorising is NOT the best way to go with learning vocabulary, grammar or any other language areas! For idioms, you should buy an all-English dictionary which explains the words in English and shows you examples of how to use the words in their REAL context.
The main point in ANY language learning is to make it as fun as possible for yourself. Try to find topics that INTEREST you, read online newspapers (Times, Guardian, Independent...), listen to BBC/NBC and other radio stations online, if you find a discussion forum for e.g. your favourite hobby or your idols in music do participate there, etc. The key word here is CONTEXT, which means that it is easier to learn new words and their usage as well as grammar when you use/see them in their real CONTEXT. The more you see and hear the new words in their context and the more you use them in your speech & writing, the easier it becomes to remember their meanings and correct spelling. Do NOT be afraid of making mistakes though, because even native speakers do make mistakes and do hesitate at times!
I'm sorry there is NO EASY WAY out with this, one really must develop language skills in ALL these language "levels" or dimensions in order to reach better language skills!!
Last but not least: NEVER EVER use ANY online translators, they are nothing but utter rubbish!! English is practically EVERYWHERE in the online world these days, you just have to use your imagination to find it! Learning pace is always personal, it takes the time it takes so there is no reason to hurry it up too much. If you do, you will not learn so well. Also, please learn the basics of the standard English first before advancing to finer details like dialects/accents. A word of warning though: Do stay well away from overrated, overpriced and overhyped language "gimmicks" such as Rosetta Stone, they really are NOT worth for checking out! Also, never mind about your accent, as the main goal for you is that others understand you and you being able to understand other speakers.
Good luck!
- 8 years ago
Sup, I'm from the U.S. Do you have the ability to study abroad in a country with English has the main language? (i.e. Britain, America, Australia, etc.) If so, I suggest living there for about a month to a half a year (depending upon job, desire to learn, etc." If not, you should try out Skype or have conversations with friends at your home, or your English teacher. Another way, is to use Google Translate, dictionary.com, or some sort of translator/electronic dictionary, thus you can have the machine say the word, and you can imitate. I did that with learning Spanish. Hope this helps xD
Source(s): I'm an American, and I've done it. https://www.dictionary.com/ https://translate.google.com/ - 6 years ago
Amazon.com has a massive collection of English Language guides and courses to buy cheap, both new and used and they offer trade in on your old textbooks as well.
http://www.amazon.com/Learn-English/b/?node=11823&...
As you prepare to learn the English Language, you need to remember you are not alone. There are a huge range of books, dvd's, language courses, guides, dictionaries and more suitable for those just starting out in this new language.
Because it is Amazon you know the prices will always be cheap but if you are on a budget many of their books are available in used options where you can save substantially.
Take a moment and read the customer reviews which will help you select the right solution for you.
Source(s): Buy English Language Resources Online http://www.amazon.com/Learn-English/b/?node=11823&... . - 8 years ago
First, decide whether you want to learn British, American, or Australian English. There are important differences. But they are all equally understandable (you can speak to an American with a British accent, for vice versa). I recommend learning American English, because Americans speak more clearly and never drop their R's.
Then, listen to pronunciations. There is Pronunciationbook on YouTube to teach you how, or you can use a dictionary. There are some words that can be pronounced more than one way (like "often" or "either") and be equally correct. There are also some words that are written the same but have different, but often similar, meanings (separate, for example).
Then you must learn how to "blend" words". Foreigners tend to give words their full pronunciation, and leave pauses in between the words. That will sound unnatural, like you are enunciating. Words blend together and may change their pronunciation sometimes. The "T" in "Metal" and "it is what it is" is often pronounced more like a "D".
It is important to learn the English R sound. This is like an L, but curl your tongue back a bit. It should not touch the roof of the mouth. This is because the "Rolled R" can be confused with a "D" or "T". Also, learn the "Th" sounds. There are two versions of 'Th', both pronounced using the same tongue position. Don't be afraid to stick your tongue out a bit for Th. You have to! It may be rude in some cultures, but not so in ours.
Try talking to some English speakers. Maybe take a trip to America, UK, Australia, or another English-speaking place. I went to Mexico for a week and I noticed an improvement in my speaking skills for Spanish.
Source(s): American. - How do you think about the answers? You can sign in to vote the answer.
- Newms34Lv 68 years ago
Hi! Firstly, English is one of the most convoluted languages there is, so I commend you on the effort.
Secondly, your written English (from the sample given) seems to be quite good.
Next, to answer your question:
Depending on where you go, you will encounter different varieties of English. For example, American and British English differ in spelling, syntax, and especially slang. A Cockney British speaker might have a difficult time, for example, understanding a person from the Southern USA. Your best bet, therefore, is to pick an easily accessible country for you and do a year of study there. You'll kind of force yourself to learn the language.
- 8 years ago
Hi there!
You probably speak russian right?
I've been trying to learn russian and the very best way to learn is to completely surround yourself with English speakers. Think in the English language, or get a friend from another country to call and talk to you in English.
Or go on vacation to and English speaking country.
I know all of this is easier said that done, but it is the best way.
- Anonymous8 years ago
I suggest you spend some time in england, perhaps with a family? Or just take a long holiday in england, it will improve both your speaking, and general English.
If not, are there any english speaking courses you could take near where you live? They might help.
Of otherwise, just read lots of english books aloud, so you can improve pronounciation...and so on :)
- 8 years ago
Focus on learning and using phrases and sentences not just words...
Repetition is key... use flashcards.. lists.. whatever you need.. but write sentences and repeat them again and again.. Your brain will get used to the patterns of sentences..
Record your voice when speaking to help with your pronunciation..
Source(s): I'm and EFL teacher - 8 years ago
cantilen,why are you giving this answer always?if there is a question about English language ,cantilen is giving this answer repeatedly.i have seen this alway