I Can Understand English, But I Can’t Speak | 🎧Podcast and Chill | Beginner

Summary

In this episode of 'Podcast and Chill,' Leo and Gwen discuss the common struggles non-native English speakers face, such as pronunciation difficulties, grammar mistakes, and the fear of making errors. They emphasize that mistakes are a natural and helpful part of learning, encouraging learners to embrace their accent and focus on clear communication rather than perfection. The hosts also highlight how learning English can open doors to new opportunities, enhance thinking skills, and improve confidence. With practical tips and motivational insights, the episode aims to inspire and support language learners on their journey.

Takeaways

• 😀 Learning English can be challenging, but it's also an exciting and rewarding adventure.
• 😀 Pronunciation can be difficult in English because words don’t always sound like they are written.
• 😀 Mistakes are a normal part of the learning process and should be seen as opportunities for improvement.
• 😀 Building confidence in speaking English comes from practice and overcoming the fear of making mistakes.
• 😀 Regular practice, even in small daily conversations, significantly boosts your comfort with the language.
• 😀 Everyone learns at their own pace, and comparing yourself to others isn't helpful in the language-learning journey.
• 😀 Understanding English is more important than speaking it perfectly—communication is the key.
• 😀 Being multilingual opens up many opportunities, including travel, career, and personal connections.
• 😀 Accents are part of your identity, and there's no need to speak like a native speaker as long as communication is clear.
• 😀 Enjoying the process of learning and celebrating small victories, like learning a few new words, is crucial to continued improvement.

Q & A

What is one of the biggest challenges for learners when starting to learn English?

One of the biggest challenges is pronunciation, as English words don't always sound like they are written, which can be confusing for learners.

How do mistakes help in learning English?

Mistakes are important because they provide an opportunity to understand and correct errors, helping learners improve with each mistake. They are part of the learning process.

Why is it important not to fear making mistakes when learning a new language?

It's important because making mistakes helps learners grow. Everyone makes mistakes, even native speakers, and it's a natural part of language learning that leads to progress.

How can learners improve their speaking confidence in English?

The key to improving speaking confidence is practice. Speaking regularly, even in small amounts, helps build comfort with the language. It's also important not to wait for perfect conditions like formal lessons.

Why should learners avoid comparing themselves to others while learning English?

Learners should avoid comparisons because everyone progresses at their own pace. Some might learn faster, but that doesn't mean others are behind. It's about personal progress, not competition.

What are some useful ways to improve English language skills outside of formal lessons?

Watching movies, listening to podcasts, keeping a journal, or using language apps are fun ways to practice English. These methods help improve vocabulary, pronunciation, and fluency in a relaxed setting.

How does learning multiple languages benefit a learner's thinking skills?

Learning multiple languages strengthens the brain, making it more flexible. It improves problem-solving skills, quick thinking, and the ability to understand different perspectives.

Is it necessary to sound like a native speaker to speak English well?

No, it's not necessary. The key to speaking English well is being able to communicate clearly and naturally. Accents are part of a person's identity, and there's no need to aim for perfection in pronunciation.

What are some useful phrases to use when learning English?

Some useful phrases include 'get used to' (to become familiar with something over time), 'get the hang of' (to learn how to do something), and 'celebrate your progress' (to recognize your improvement).

What is one way to build your English vocabulary and understand how people speak naturally?

Watching movies in English is a great way to pick up new words, improve pronunciation, and understand the natural flow of conversations.