Forget words when speaking? Fix it instantly!

Summary

In this video, Christian from Canguro English shares five effective strategies for overcoming moments when you forget a word while speaking English. These strategies work for all levels of learners and don't require additional learning. Techniques include using related words, employing opposites with 'not,' describing the general idea first, using body language, and simplifying words to their core meaning. The key takeaway is that communication is about getting the message across, not about perfect word choice. The video also encourages viewers to keep practicing and stay confident in their English learning journey.

Takeaways

• 😀 Strategy 5: Use related words to fill in gaps when you forget a word. You don't need to be too precise, and allowing others to help can be useful.
• 😀 Strategy 4: Use the opposite of the missing word with 'NOT' in front. This works especially well for adjectives and can help you sound more diplomatic.
• 😀 Strategy 3: Start by giving the big idea before describing specific details. This prepares your listener and helps them understand your message more easily.
• 😀 Strategy 2: Use body language to support your words. Gesturing and facial expressions can provide extra information and improve communication.
• 😀 Strategy 1: Simplify complex words by focusing on their core meaning and category. Use a broader term and add 'FOR' to explain it clearly (e.g., 'shop for bread').
• 😀 You can use simple words or phrases to describe something when you can't remember the exact term. The key is clear communication, not perfect vocabulary.
• 😀 The most important part of communication is mindset. Be kind to yourself when you forget words and don't let frustration affect your fluency.
• 😀 Fluency in communication isn't about knowing every word. It's about conveying your message effectively, even with limited vocabulary.
• 😀 Practice using strategies like 'describe the tool' or 'ask for help with related words' in real life situations to improve your communication.
• 😀 Focus on communication in context rather than on exact words. Real-life situations help bridge the gap between what you know and what you need to communicate.

Q & A

What is the main challenge language learners face when speaking English, according to the video?

The main challenge is forgetting words mid-conversation, which can reduce fluency and confidence.

What is the first strategy suggested for dealing with forgotten words?

The first strategy is to use related words. If you can't remember the exact word, try using a similar word or a more general term.

How can using related words help in a conversation?

Using related words helps convey the main idea even if the exact word is forgotten. It allows for smoother communication without being overly precise.

Can you provide an example of how to use related words when you forget a specific word?

If you want to say 'exhausted' but forget the word, you can use 'sleepy,' 'tired,' or 'out of energy,' which communicate the same general idea.

What is the second strategy for dealing with missing words?

The second strategy is to think of the opposite of the missing word and add 'NOT' in front of it. This can work well, especially with adjectives.

How does the 'opposite + NOT' strategy help in communication?

This strategy helps by allowing you to convey the intended meaning without the exact word. For example, 'ugly' becomes 'not beautiful.'

What is the third strategy for overcoming word gaps in conversation?

The third strategy is to give the big idea first before getting into specifics. This helps your listener understand what you're talking about.

Why is it important to give the big idea first when you don’t know a specific word?

It prepares the listener to help you by understanding the general context, making it easier to fill in the missing word.

What role does body language play in overcoming language gaps, according to the video?

Body language helps convey extra information and can fill in gaps in communication, especially when paired with the language you do know.

What is the final strategy mentioned for dealing with forgotten words?

The final strategy is to simplify the word to its core meaning and general category, and then use 'FOR' to create a clear description. For example, 'a bakery' becomes 'a shop for bread.'