There is lots of misinformation that can discourage you from learning a new language, but fear not! Here, we explain the most common myths – and the reality.
As a beginner, mastering English is not that easy. And it can be complicated to learn something completely new. You just need some practice and perseverance to achieve your goal.
Before you start learning, you might find things on the internet that hinder the learning process. Try to focus on practicing the language and forget about negative stuff that could leave you feeling insecure.
Remember: anyone can learn English. Your progress depends only on you and your effort.
It’s better to study every day than do an intensive course
Fact. English intensive courses can be an interesting alternative, but practicing the language on a daily basis is always a better choice. Experts say consistency is a key factor in achieving fluency. The best way to learn English is by studying it every day.
Remember: an intensive course can help (a lot), but you must keep studying afterward for the best results.
You have to study or live abroad to become fluent in English
Myth! There are a number of people proficient in English who have never traveled abroad. Equally, there are many people who have traveled abroad – or even have lived abroad for months or years – who didn’t necessarily become fluent in English. You don’t have to leave your home country to learn English. What you really need is practice!
Of course, when you are abroad English is almost mandatory, but you can get familiar with English at home as well. Due to globalization, you can easily find online courses, internet forums and YouTube channels in English, so you can learn English all day long.
People fluent in English can face some difficulties with the language
Fact. If you think that fluency means a complete understanding of English, think again. If you are a beginner or at intermediate level and you have difficulties, that is absolutely normal. Even those who have spoken English fluently for a long time can face some difficulties.
You should also consider that cultural issues, slang and accents play a big role. Those who are fluent in English do have some doubts, and quite often. If you find yourself having a difficult moment during a conversation, just use the words you know and move on!
You have to lose your accent to speak English fluently
Myth! Maybe this is one of the most infamous myths about learning English. Whether in the US or England, for example, accents can vary wildly. In the UK, accents can change every 50 km! Does that prevent people from communicating in English? Not at all!
One can perfectly understand most Indians who speak English, perhaps more clearly than we can understand those who try to speak the local dialect in our country. Yes, it can help to “reduce” your accent, but it’s definitely not essential.
You need to know grammar to become fluent in English
Myth! Learning grammar is important in any language, but your English skills are based on your ability to talk, read and write. Although theory is very useful, the first step to learning English is practice.
Learning the Present Perfect, Simple Past, Passive Voice etc. will help you understand English better. But if you overthink grammar rules during a conversation, it won’t help much. And at the end of the day, it’s not that important. What did you learn first in your native language: to speak and understand what you hear, or find out what the subject and the predicate of the phrase is? Or if the verb is in the present or past tense?
Want to bust more myths about English?
Myths and facts about learning English were our topics today. We hope you enjoyed the subject and that it has encouraged you to keep improving your English.
If you want to uncover more myths about English, don’t forget to ask for a specific class on the topic with one of our native tutors.
Leave your comments below and see you soon, folks!
