I’m sure many people have done this kind of post before, but I’ve been putting a lot of thought about how to try to speak a foreign language if you’re like me and introverted and shy. Most of these are drawing upon my time in Ukraine, so they may be geared more towards those who are in an immersive environment.
Of course this isn’t the same as speaking and creating your own sentences, but it’s not only important for hearing how the language sounds, but also for hearing how the language sounds in your own voice. It will give you a stress-free environment for practicing pronunciation and getting used to how certain grammar patterns are used. Plus it can also be a confidence booster, because you can hear how good your accent is when you’re not under pressure to be understood. The same goes for singing if that’s one of your hobbies.
2. Translate in your head when you’re reading or speaking in your native language
It’s definitely easier to do this while reading, but I like to play games of “how would I say this in my target language?” when I’m formulating a thought. It’s a good way to identify your weaknesses and what’s making you anxious about speaking (for example, is it because you don’t know the vocabulary to express yourself, or because you’re not sure about grammar?)
3. If you’re in a country/area where your target language is used, make sure to explore alone!
I fell into a bit of a rut with my language learning in Ukraine because I was always surrounded by Americans, or people who were more fluent in Ukrainian and Russian than me. This meant my conversations were more in English than they should have been. But at the end of my trip I was mostly traveling alone and I started to notice how much more Ukrainian I was using (for obvious reasons). Of course if you’re nervous this is probably one of the more nerve-wracking suggestions, but it will force you to speak your language.
4. Order something different!
I’m not a picky eater, but I have certain things that I got into the habit of eating while abroad. I could very easily order a bowl of okroshka and a side of kasha…because I ordered it all the time. Even if it’s just another type of soup, you’ll stop using a memorized phrase and instead begin to speak more fluidly. Plus you’ll get to try new foods!
Except kvass. Never stop ordering kvass.
If you’re a creature of habit and like to get the same thing, try buying from different vendors. In addition to getting yourself to use new words, it will expose you to new voices as well.
5. If you can and are old enough (and want to), converse over a beer or a glass of wine
TW: Alcohol mention. Obviously this can’t be an option for everyone, but if you’re able to, grab a drink with someone to practice. It loosens up inhibitions when it comes to speaking and you’ll worry less about making mistakes. And, like with above, you’ll get to try something new and experience a culture’s drinking culture.
6. Think out loud and narrate your actions
You can definitely start by doing this at home. When you get up, tell yourself what you need to do for the day in your target language. Soon you’ll be thinking out loud in front of other people. It helps you explain your thought process–an example was when I was buying a souvenir and I was explaining to the saleswoman why I liked her items more than the others I had seen. This was probably unnecessary, but having gotten used to explaining things to myself in Ukrainian, this came out when I was talking to her. It’s also good for strengthening conjunctions.
7. As hard as it may be, keep in mind that one mistake or one awkward interaction isn’t the end of the world
It’s always embarrassing to mess up, but most of the time you’ll end up being understood. There are stereotypes about speakers of certain languages looking down on improper grammar, but in my experience people are generally happy that someone is learning their language. If someone does switch to your native language, it’s usually because they want to be helpful and don’t realize you actively want to speak their language. If it happens, as discouraging as it may be, try to continue in your target language. A grammar mistake or mispronounced word is usually still understandable, and you’ll never correct them unless you try.
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