A highly popular and valuable language to learn, the ability to speak fluid English can help you find a better job while allowing you the advantages of being able to communicate with other English speakers.
However, while there are tremendous benefits to speaking English, it’s also one of the toughest languages to learn. And if you do decide to take on the challenge of learning the language, you’ll be far better off if you understand the challenges before you begin.
Here are the five biggest challenges to overcome when learning English.
1. The Vocabulary
With one of the most expansive vocabularies, understanding the verb variations and how to apply the correct tense in a given situation can get pretty tricky for those learning the English language. And while misusing vocabulary isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker when it comes to successful communicating, it’s highly noticeable to native speakers and can weaken the point you’re trying to get across.
2. Grammar
Complex and difficult to learn, English grammar is a challenge to absorb and use properly. And although there are plenty of great books on grammar, it can take a lot of practice before you’re able to effectively implement them into your speaking.
While it can be tedious to master, having correct grammar is vital for clear communication. Poor grammar can not only confuse who you’re talking to but alter the meaning of what you’re trying to say. Fortunately, there are some great tools you can use if you need some extra grammatical help:
- Grammar Girl – Grammar Girl’s “Quick and Dirty Tips” provides quick lessons to help with the grammatical confusion.
- Gramma-Monster – A free course that covers punctuation, various aspects of speech, and often made grammatical mistakes.
- Writing Daddy – If you have to write a paper for either work or school and you’re concerned about your grammar, using a professional writing service like WritingDaddy is a great way to go!
- VerbaLearn – This one’s actually for your vocabulary, but VerbaLearn is a great free online studying site that is perfect for learning vocabulary and phrases. The site offers lessons through video, audio, and even games and flashcards.
- ESL Monkeys – Providing a list of free online tools and resources that include quizzes, language lessons, and podcasts, ESL Monkeys is a go-to site for those learning English.
3. Pronunciation
While native English speakers get to learn the trickier nuances of pronunciation when they’re in grade school, it can be pretty tough for those new to the language to grasp many of the stranger subtleties (not pronouncing the “k” in “knight” or the “d” in “Wednesday). To complicate things even more, there are a number of languages that don’t teach certain phonetic sounds that are used in English, and if your native language is one of those, the mastering pronunciation of a number of English words will be that much more difficult.
4. Slang and Colloquialisms
Between the complex grammar and vast vocabulary, English language students already have plenty to learn. However, often times classes don’t offer any instruction into the use of the slang words that are frequently used in ordinary day-to-day conversations. In fact, it’s not uncommon for slang words to dominate conversations which can lead to a difficult time for those only learning to speak English from a formal perspective.
5. Variations
As mentioned above, the different ways English is used can make communicating for those learning the language difficult when trying to converse with others. The confusion of formal vs informal language can lead to speaking informally in situations where formal is more appropriate or even vice versa. On top of that, the variations between written and spoken language can make things even more difficult with students spelling words phonetically (how it sounds when they say them) instead of spelling them properly.
Conclusion
While learning English can be difficult, the rewards of speaking it can be quite beneficial. By focusing on the tougher aspects that I’ve laid out above, you’ll be able to better prepare yourself for the challenge and with enough determination and practice, become proficient at speaking it.
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