Tips and common mistakes when learning English abroad: Make the most of the experience
Posted: Tue Jan 21, 2025 4:27 am
Learning English abroad can be one of the most enriching experiences of your life. However, like any great adventure, it is not without challenges and mistakes that could limit your progress if you don't identify them in time.
So, in this article we will explore practical tips and common mistakes so that you can make the most of this unique opportunity. Let's get to work!
1. Get out of your comfort zone
One of the most common mistakes when learning English abroad is nepal phone number list in your comfort zone . It's tempting to spend time only with other speakers of your native language , as it gives you a sense of familiarity and security. However, this practice can greatly limit your learning.
What to do instead? Look for activities that force you to interact with native speakers or people from different countries . Sign up for clubs, workshops, or classes that are n't solely related to learning English , such as yoga, cooking, or sports . Not only will this help you practice the language in real-life contexts, but it will also expand your social circle and allow you to learn about other cultures.
Practical example: If you are in a cooking class, you can use phrases like:
Could you please pass me the knife?
How do you usually prepare this dish?
2. Speaking too much in your native language
It's normal to want to fall back on your native language when you feel frustrated or insecure about expressing yourself in English, but this can become an obstacle to your learning. Constantly speaking in your native language reduces the time you spend practicing English , which slows down your progress .
How to avoid it? Make a conscious effort to surround yourself with English at all times . Even if you have roommates or friends who speak your language, set clear rules to communicate only in English . You can also use technological tools, such as setting your phone and social media to English, to further immerse yourself in the language.
Practical example: If you have a roommate, you could practice phrases like:
Do you mind if I use the washing machine now?
Could you help me figure out how to get to the city center?
3. Avoid interacting with locals
One of the biggest benefits of learning English abroad is the chance to interact with native speakers. However, many people avoid doing so because they are afraid of making mistakes or not being understood.
Why is it important? Talking to locals exposes you to everyday expressions , slang , and a more natural speaking rhythm. Plus, these interactions are the best way to practice listening comprehension and improve your fluency.
What can you do? Don't be afraid to make mistakes; most people will appreciate your effort to communicate. Take part in community activities or local events, such as fairs, language exchange groups or excursions.
Practical example: At a local coffee shop, you can practice saying:
So, in this article we will explore practical tips and common mistakes so that you can make the most of this unique opportunity. Let's get to work!
1. Get out of your comfort zone
One of the most common mistakes when learning English abroad is nepal phone number list in your comfort zone . It's tempting to spend time only with other speakers of your native language , as it gives you a sense of familiarity and security. However, this practice can greatly limit your learning.
What to do instead? Look for activities that force you to interact with native speakers or people from different countries . Sign up for clubs, workshops, or classes that are n't solely related to learning English , such as yoga, cooking, or sports . Not only will this help you practice the language in real-life contexts, but it will also expand your social circle and allow you to learn about other cultures.
Practical example: If you are in a cooking class, you can use phrases like:
Could you please pass me the knife?
How do you usually prepare this dish?
2. Speaking too much in your native language
It's normal to want to fall back on your native language when you feel frustrated or insecure about expressing yourself in English, but this can become an obstacle to your learning. Constantly speaking in your native language reduces the time you spend practicing English , which slows down your progress .
How to avoid it? Make a conscious effort to surround yourself with English at all times . Even if you have roommates or friends who speak your language, set clear rules to communicate only in English . You can also use technological tools, such as setting your phone and social media to English, to further immerse yourself in the language.
Practical example: If you have a roommate, you could practice phrases like:
Do you mind if I use the washing machine now?
Could you help me figure out how to get to the city center?
3. Avoid interacting with locals
One of the biggest benefits of learning English abroad is the chance to interact with native speakers. However, many people avoid doing so because they are afraid of making mistakes or not being understood.
Why is it important? Talking to locals exposes you to everyday expressions , slang , and a more natural speaking rhythm. Plus, these interactions are the best way to practice listening comprehension and improve your fluency.
What can you do? Don't be afraid to make mistakes; most people will appreciate your effort to communicate. Take part in community activities or local events, such as fairs, language exchange groups or excursions.
Practical example: At a local coffee shop, you can practice saying: