2024-11-15 How can I stop translating when speaking English? – Ask BBC Learning English

Introduction

Semsihan has sent us a question. She wants to know how to stop translating when speaking English.

Beth’s top tips!

1. Don’t worry about making mistakes! They’re a great way to learn, and everyone makes them, so don’t be embarrassed – embrace them! 

2. Think and talk to yourself out loud in English, especially when on your own because they no one can hear you practising! The more familiar you are with speaking in English, the easier it will be when you actually communicate with someone. 

3. Associate new language with language that you already know. For example, if you learn a new noun that goes with ‘do’, try to associate it with other nouns you know that are used with ‘do’, like do the washing up, do a dance and do your homework. This will make it easier to remember vocabulary when you’re speaking. 

4. Learn phrases instead of words. English is made up of lots of words that frequently go together – these are sometimes called collocations, but certain grammatical structures have these too. If you know the meaning and how to use some of these phrases, it will help you to not translate when communicating. Here are some examples of English phrases: at the end of the day, I’ve been + -ing for ages, by the way, catch a flight.

5. The best way to learn English is to enjoy the way you study it! If you like reading fantasy novels, read fantasy novels in English, watch your favourite series in English… You don’t have to memorise grammar rules if you know that’s not the best way that you learn. 

Thanks to Semsihan studying at the English school EC London for participating in this video.