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Stop Learning a Language from Books, Start Speaking!

Jaro007

Stop Learning a Language from Books, Start Speaking!

When it comes to learning a language, we often rely heavily on books and grammar rules. But here’s a secret—language learning starts with engagement, not with textbooks!

Think about how babies and young children learn. They don’t start by reading grammar books or memorizing vocabulary lists. They listen, observe, and most importantly, speak. They learn by interacting with the world around them, engaging in conversations with family, friends, and others. It’s only after they start speaking that they are taught the formal rules in school.

The same principle applies to adults. To truly learn a language, you need to speak it! Engage in real conversations with people, practice with others, and embrace the messiness of making mistakes. This is how you start building a true understanding of the language.

Once you start speaking and feeling more confident, that’s when the books and grammar lessons come in. They help you refine and perfect what you've already learned through experience and interaction. A teacher or mentor can help guide your progress, but the foundation should always be built through communication with real people.

So, don’t wait to be perfect before you speak! The best way to learn a language is by using it—every day—with those around you. Speak first, learn second!

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This column was published by the author in their personal capacity.
The opinions expressed in this column are the author's own and do not reflect the view of Cafetalk.

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