People frequently look and sound awkward when speaking to someone in another language.
This is primarily due to feeling self-conscious. As a result, they display unassertive, hesitant, or nervous behaviour. For example they:
Constantly break eye contact and look away when searching for words
Use filler words such as um
Say sentences with an upward inflection, as if asking a question or feeling uncertain
This is for native English speakers who use an upward inflection for yes/no questions
Scold themselves out loud
Switch to using English (or their first language) instead of sticking to the foreign language
Here are 4 simple ways to look and sound more natural instead of awkward.
Learn filler words in the language you’re learning
Instead of saying um, use the filler words in your target language
Think first, then speak
Most beginners sound choppy because they follow this pattern: think of the first few words in a sentence → say those words → pause or say um while they think of the next few words → say the next few words
Instead of doing that, think of your entire sentence first and say it all in one go
Maintain eye contact
This ties directly to the previous tip. Language learners frequently look away when think about how to articulate an idea
It’s not inherently bad to do this, but keep in mind that it’s hard to connect with someone who doesn’t look at you. Connection is important for fluency. It’s much easier to speak fluently with someone you like and trust
This is why I recommended you think first, then speak. It will make it easier to maintain eye contact more consistently
Never EVER scold or criticize yourself out loud in the middle of a conversation
If you do this, just…stop. It’s an unproductive habit
Bonus tip (and perhaps the most effective) for beginners: learn to say high-frequency words and phrases with excellent pronunciation.
Great pronunciation makes for a great first impression. It’s always noticed by native speakers. They will be impressed and will treat you warmly. As a result, you’ll like each other and quickly become friends. It’s easier to speak fluently with a friend you like and trust.
Here are some words and phrases to practice saying in your target language.
Repeat them over and over until you can say them confidently and with excellent pronunciation. Depending on why you’re learning a language, there might be certain words or phrases that you say all the time that I have not put on this list.
Hi/bye
How are you/I’m doing well
What’s your name/my name is
Please/thank you
Sorry
Excuse me
Pardon (i.e., to have someone repeat themselves)
Touristy questions
Do you know where____ is?
How much does _____ cost?
Do you speak English?
If the topic of non-verbal cues interests you, I’d recommend reading a book called Cues by Vanessa Van Edwards.
I read it earlier this year - I’d highly recommend it!
Thanks for reading this blog post. If you have any comments or questions, let me know here.