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  • 3 ways to deceive your brain to learn a new language

    3 ways to deceive your brain to learn a new language

    Learning a new language is incredibly satisfied and fun, but there are moments when our brain seems to work against us.

    Being a person who has learned to speak four new languages ​​from scratch, I know that there are concrete steps that you can follow to overcome a learning crisis and to make your learning more efficient.

    Here are three ways in which you can deceive your brain to learn a new language faster:

    1. Create a sense of emergency

    A complaint commonly met in the study of a new language? Lack of time.

    After a whole day at work or school, when you expose your brain to enormous quantities of information, your brain can refuse at any price to study a new language for a simple reason: it does not want to consume additional energy!

    So how to respond?

    Participate in a course with other people

    Any course. An online course, a person in person or a Saturday seminar. The aim is that someone will take you to take into account. The commitment to participate with other people, in particular with a class and a teacher, will give you a healthy pressure.

    Follow your progress … and share it

    Have you ever thought about recording audio or video to trace your progress? What would you say to distribute your last essay, the last letter or your favorite expressions on social networks? There is a huge learning community of foreign languages ​​on Twitter and several Facebook groups that will support you and from which you will have to learn.

    Do not give the brain the opportunity to get rid of the target language

    Listening to music while I go to school or work, watch Netflix movies or shows during the weekend, reading a magazine during lunch or publishing on social networks in your target language are all excellent ways to start learning.

    You can also tags objects at home with post-it notes in the destination language. In this way, you are exposed to a new vocabulary all day. The goal is to send to your brain the message you have to use this language … because it is everywhere around you.

    2. Make learning as much person as possible

    Our brain tends to forget the things we don’t need. Or things that seem not very interesting for us. In fact, most of us complain that we have a bad memory and do not remember the new vocabulary, for example, but it is natural given the amount of information with which our brain is bombed every day.

    Your mission? Praise your brain to believe that these foreign words are significant, necessary and personal.

    Use your photos

    The next time you create a sheet for the word «dog» in Spanish, French or German, it is easier for the brain to remember the word if you take a photo with your pet and then use it on an image card, rather than using the equivalent English translation, for example.

    And doing it on your smartphone is very simple: install a free Flashcard app, such as Quizlet or Ankiapp and upload your photos.

    Choose key expressions instead of lists

    Instead of memorizing lists of vocabularies, choose significant words for your life experiences, routines and relationships.

    For example, it is common to learn useful words to several jobs when you start learning a new language. Instead of memorizing the infinite lists of posts, start with the work of your partner, your parents or your best friend! It is more likely that you use what you have learned and therefore reminds them more time.

    Write on you as soon as possible

    Use a new vocabulary to talk about your life and to explain your feelings, opinions and personal history, rather than following the generic examples of textbooks. What you see in the textbooks is the starting point of your learning, not the final point: the final point is the use of the language in real life and in a natural and useful way.

    3. Learn to repeat in a way that really works

    Some people may remember live their entire tables of English or Spanish verbs who have learned in high school. However, ask these people to combine them, use them in the context or apply them while telling a story … and therefore you will understand why the repetition of the repetition is not always the best way to follow.

    While learning through repetition has its benefits, the secret is not to learn everything very quickly. But repeat effectively.

    Familiarize with a distance repetition

    In his book Flucent Forever: how to learn any language and never forget it, Polyglot Gabriel Wyner presents us to the technique of repetition for learning a second language. Instead of learning quickly, in a session, information and therefore never look at the study materials, the goal is to repeat the vocabulary from time to time, for a longer period of time and with longer intervals.

    The goal is to expose the brain to the target tongue just when it is about to forget it. As Wyner says, «in a period of four months, practicing 30 minutes a day, you can expect to learn and keep 3600 image cards with 90-95 percent».

    Be more visual

    Do you remember what I said previously on the personalization of learning using your photos with the images?

    Not only to use your images helps your brain to better memorize things, but the simple gesture of looking for a foreign word on Google images and saving one of the images on the phone to use them as a flashcard can really help memorize. Try using your custom cards with funny images, places you know, family holidays or loved ones. You will surely remember them better after some repetitions than to use only words!

    Repeat and put what you learn immediately immediately

    Remembering whole lists of verbs is not the same to know how to use them and our brain has more possibility to remember things once they have been used in real life conversations.

    The use of the things you learned to speak with a teacher, a classmate or a group is crucial, because the external reward supports our learning. You can also practice writing the same word in at least ten different sentences as soon as you learn: its repetition in the context will not only help you remember, but it will help you and understand what you have just learned.

  • Because investments in your linguistic skills are the best thing you can do for your career

    Because investments in your linguistic skills are the best thing you can do for your career

    It is not a secret that the flowing speech of a second language can help you progress in your career. The effort to master English – Franca Global language – or another language, can be the basic stone you need to make the junior jump to the direction or even on an executive level.

    Open doors – for people and countries

    One of the main ways in which bilingualism or multilingualism can stimulate your career is the immediate improvement of the possibility of doing business or finding a job at an international level.

    Linguistic skills literally open doors for new opportunities. Talking about different languages ​​helps you better understand the global market, as well as to understand the wishes and needs of international customers, suppliers and partners. The ability to converse directly prevents potentially expensive misunderstandings and improves precision; Also save translation costs.

    At national level, studies have shown that in countries where a great proportion of work speaks a second language, a higher percentage of the gross domestic product (GDP) comes from international trade. This is particularly true in the case of Switzerland: due to the multilingual nature of the country-German, French and Italian are official languages ​​and are often spoken, it is estimated that multilingualism represents up to 10% of the country’s GDP.

    The monolinx countries that do not encourage language learning at an early age – for example the United Kingdom – can lose international opportunities and lose potential income, despite the advantage of native English. A study by the United Kingdom suggests that the lack of knowledge of the foreign language of the United Kingdom costs its economy up to 48 billion pounds ($ 80 billion) per year.

    Your winning potential increases

    Companies see the correlation between bilingual or multilingual employees and growth on international markets, therefore they are willing to invest in the hiring of personnel with solid linguistic skills.

    A study by the United States estimates that bilingual employees earn up to $ 3,000 per year compared to monolical people. A second American study has published the conclusions that German learning can increase revenue up to 3.8% in the United States, because, although German is rarely spoken, Germany is a key actor in European markets.

    And does not stop there; Euro London, a recruitment agency in the United Kingdom specialized in foreign languages, even estimate that being bilingual can increase your salary up to 15%.

    Makes you a more effective communicator

    Be bilingual or multilingual differentiates you. Linguistic knowledge is coveted by employers who want to develop a competitive company and are searched when they take interviews for the next step in your career.

    The fluidity of a second language can help you guarantee a respected job in an important international company. US studies have shown that the demand for bilingual employees has doubled in the last five years and that almost 40% of US companies intend to hire bilingual staff. When interviewers live candidates as qualified, they are more interested in taking the bilingual candidate.

    Everything is reduced to effective communication. Knowing a second language helps you effectively expand your knowledge network, allows you to make the most of opportunities and start potentially profitable conversations, both for you and for your business.

    And it is not just the immediate result; Being able to speak in the mother tongue of the host nation during the breaks is considered respectful and helps to build long -term relationships.

    In addition, it has been shown that talking different languages ​​increases skills such as an open mind, empathy and creativity: all important for the success and progress of the career, regardless of your level.

    Makes you a better leader

    These skills become even more important when it comes to management roles. The annual knowledge index of the English F has shown that employees with better English skills are promoted more often.

    An element of understanding of culture is required when a new language is master, so that managers who speak more languages ​​are often more able to relate to colleagues and communicate more efficiently – an essential skill when they have different cultures and environments.

    While we will climb the executive staircase, the importance of communication skills becomes even more pronounced. It is interesting to note that directors tend to speak English worse than employees at the management level; Improving English skills would therefore be particularly important for someone who leads a team of people who could speak English better than them.

    Makes you ready for the future

    As the Ef Epi report shows, a high level of knowledge of the English language is related to a higher GDP, a higher average income and a national innovation. In fact, the countries with more solid linguistic skills, especially in English, are stronger and more connected globally.

    But this is also valid on an individual level: not only that the future of work is international, but strong linguistic skills, together with strong communication skills, in addition to understanding how to overcome cultural differences will become even more important in a world in which robots and artificial intelligence take on automation activities and anything that does not require a human connection.

  • 8 things that only international students will understand

    8 things that only international students will understand

    Participation in a study program abroad is a transformation experience. Not only will you earn self -confidence, you will learn new skills, you will explore wonderful places and meet new people, but you will be challenged to get out of your comfort zone. Although you can try to describe how extraordinary your experience has been, there are some aspects that only international students will understand as an integral part of this journey.

    1. Food is a universal language

    We are honest, food is a universal language that we speak fluently. Whether we talk about breakfast habits in various cultures, we share the secrets of the grandmother’s lasagna recipe or we commit to finding the best portion of carbonara pasta of RomeThe topic of food inevitably slips into every conversation. As an international student, it is guaranteed that you will discover new favorite recipes and tastes. You can also try an essential local preparation when it comes to your friend’s «home» package (as if to find vegetables from an Australian).

    2. Video call have become the new normality

    Family meetings Through applications such as WhatsApp or Zoom they become more and more common and represent the perfect framework to share your experience from abroad. It is something special in showing your grandparents your house room in Berlin or starting the room when you walk on the streets of Italy, even if the image is a little pixelated and the background can be noisy.

    3. Your friends come from all over the world

    As an international student, your circle of friends will most likely include people in various corners of the world. From your Brazilian friend who teaches you to dance, to your Swedish friend who introduces you to the Fika ritual – the world seems smaller and much more interesting when you have some international friends. In addition, once the study period is over, you will have destinations and friends to visit in the coming years.

    4. The most important thing in your backpack is a table of verbs

    Forget the textbooks: as a linguistic student abroad, the most precious tool in the bag is that table of conjugation of the verbs you can trust. Because to be honest, to face a foreign language without one being like trying to navigate in a labyrinth with tied eyes. Whether you believe it alone or if the teacher offers you one at the beginning of the semester, that table of conjugation of the stain, wrinkled and full of notes is your new best friend.

    5. The first page of the phone looks a little different

    Your phone looks a little different today. You may never have used applications such as Google Translate or XE for foreign conversion, but now they are essential as a rescue collar in a foreign country. From the interpretation of road indicators to the calculation of exchange rates, these applications have found a well -deserved place in the starting screen.

    6. There is always something to celebrate

    Diwali, thanks, Chinese New Year and San Patrizio. You have noticed all these events in your calendar and you know the meaning of each of these special holidays. The study experience abroad is as if I lived in a cultural mixture, so do not stop at the celebration of your cultural holidays or even those of your new country. Thanks to your international colleagues, you will also be able to embrace an entire world of holidays. We are talking about a party throughout the year!

    7. Recognize the accents

    With a global group of friends next to you, you have become an expert in distinguishing accents. From the British, to the Australians, to the South African – you can probably identify them. And you know that «chips» means very different things in the United States or in the United Kingdom. You can distinguish between the Spaniards in Spain and the one in Argentina, or between the north and the German south of the country.

    8. When you come home, everything seems … different

    There is a feeling of sweet and sweet when you come home after studying abroad. Everything is familiar, but a little different. You have acquired a new perspective and a deeper appreciation for your home, but also feel an ardent desire to start in another adventure. Your hometown may not feel exactly the same, but all these feelings are part of the experience and beauty of global travel.

  • How to overcome the fear of speaking a foreign language

    How to overcome the fear of speaking a foreign language

    Learn a foreign language Open doors to new cultures, opportunities and friends. The best way to strengthen linguistic skills is the practice, but for many students, the fear of speaking a new language prevents their progress.

    This fear of being wrong or misunderstood can discourage even the safest students to practice and improve their linguistic skills. There is also a term for this: Xenoglosophobia – the fear of speaking foreign languages. Although it seems somehow discouraging, it is much more common than you might think.

    Do you study a foreign language, but don’t you feel comfortable to use it? We explore the reasons for this anxiety and some suggestions to help you overcome your fears, acquire confidence in your skills and enjoy the learning of a new language. Everyone makes mistakes; It’s just a part of the adventure!

    Causes of anxiety in the process of learning foreign languages

    Anxiety for learning foreign languages ​​can be fueled by many different factors including:

    Fear of being judged: Concern for classmates, teachers or native speakers who could criticize your skills, which leads to the performance and reluctance to speak.

    Fear of embarrassment: Anticipate that making mistakes could lead to embarrassing situations may make you not want to speak.

    The feeling of unprepared: The feeling of not being prepared for unpredictable interactions in real life can exacerbate this anxiety.

    Fear of a wrong communication: Especially for beginners, some students are afraid of the opportunity to confuse or offend someone.

    Too great attention on words or phrases: Concentrate mainly on words or phrases without practicing complete sentences can prevent your ability to form coherent thoughts. This, in turn, contributes to the general understanding of the word and involvement in conversations.

    Although these fears and hesitations are normal, it is also important to challenge them. Many native speakers are open to the opportunity to speak with someone who makes an active and respectful effort to know their language and culture. Errors and few doubts during the learning process are a natural part of the journey and something that everyone has a certain experience.

    How to overcome the fear of speaking a new language

    The overcoming of the fear of speaking a new language involves the construction step by step and the creation of a positive learning experience. Here are some suggestions that you can find useful:

    1. Start simple

    Start with basic and simple conversations and gradually increases complexity. This will help you reduce anxiety and control basic interactions.

    2. Interact with native speakers and teachers who support you

    The interaction with native speakers and teachers who provide constructive feedback creates a safe learning environment, helping you correct errors without judging yourself.

    3. Accept errors

    Try to perceive errors as a development opportunity. The celebration of small successes, such as the pronunciation or correct completion of a conversation, will increase your trust and motivation.

    4. Practice the use of complete phrases and interactions in real life

    Practicing complete phrases and real life interactions improves fluidity, preparing for the scenarios in the real world. If it is difficult for you during a conversation, don’t be afraid to slow down or think about the following words.

    5. Establishes realistic objectives

    Establishing realistic objectives and patience are very important for fluidity in foreign languages. Do not forget to recognize your progress and celebrate your goals once you reach!

    6. Talk to other foreign language students

    Speaking with other foreign language students, build friends and share common experiences, which make the general experience more pleasant.

    7. Participate in cultural dive activities

    Participating in cultural dive activities, such as watching movies or participating in events, will help you better understand your language.

    Are you ready to start practicing?

    Control of any new ability is a process that requires patience, perseverance and, above all, a positive mentality.

    When it comes to learning foreign languages, the more you practice with simple conversations and you start accepting errors such as learning opportunities, the more you trust. In addition, try new things, join the communities and participate in captivating activities will make your trip even more fun.

    Remember: to learn to speak a new foreign language takes time. With a constant effort and a support environment, you can overcome your fear and you will be able to enjoy more satisfaction offered by learning a new foreign language!

  • How to memorize the new vocabulary faster: 9 tips

    How to memorize the new vocabulary faster: 9 tips

    It doesn’t matter how good your grammar is, if you don’t know any word you can use, you will not reach your linguistic skills too much: the vocabulary opens the doors to the new worlds and makes learning fun and satisfactory.

    But the extension of the range of words you know is like a diet: you have to make an effort and there is no magic makeup, a secret or a single approach for everyone. Everyone must find what works for him; But to be patient, fixing realistic goals and rewarding you if you reach them is a good strategy that can be completed with one of the following points.

    1. Use memory techniques

    A popular way to memorize the vocabulary is the use of mnemotechnics, which are mental shortcuts that help you remember more complex concepts or words. For example, you can create associations between words: if you don’t know how to write the accommodation of words (consciousness), remember that it has two blankets (two COTS) who need two mattresses (two MTools). Or come with an acronym: for example, when you have to go to the shop to buy MZealina, Ardei, Gri, AMoons, zAhar, IAURT E Nhectare. The problem is, of course, you have to memorize the acronym, the song or the association, but with a little practice, you will create creative and useful connections. E: The more you think of the acronyms or associations, the easier you will remember the words that are related to them.

    2. Create an environment in favor of learning

    When you study abroad, you will listen to and read your language everywhere and you will learn much faster through immersion. But you don’t have to go abroad to slowly increase the number of words you know: you can create an environment that inspires you and favor learning, when: buy magazines or books in the language you want to learn, when you watch movies and when you cook (or even when you eat).

    3. Put the words in a context

    A good idea to learn as many words as soon as possible is to put them in the context: instead of writing random words, trying to form phrases with them. So, you will know how that word is used in real life. Also, if you come with funny phrases, it will be easier to store. Depending on how you learn, you can also make drawings or find images that will complete the sentences and put the words in their natural environment.

    4. Learn from real life situations

    By the way: films, TV programs, books, podcasts or songs are not only an excellent source for the most common words, but they can also help you memorize the vocabulary, because they are always associated with a scene, a person or an event in real life. So try reading books or watch the original movies (subtitles) and understand what words mean. If you see or listen to a phrase or sentence you don’t understand, you can write it, you can analyze it and therefore you can store it.

    5. Go to the next level

    If you want to learn foreign languages ​​at the next level, leave enough space for mental diagrams with words, synonyms or antonimi associates. If you want to make the most of the learning process, try not to translate the word into the mother tongue, but explain it and describe it in the language you are trying to learn.

    6. Find the tools that work for you

    Everyone learns different, so if you don’t already know what works for you, try the most different or a combination of them, as much as possible: flashcards, applications, lists, games or post-its are excellent ways to store words. The same goes to find the right time: some people want to practice at a certain moment, others learn more spontaneously. Regardless of the approach you choose, be sure to insert a sort of rhythm rhythm is the mother of the teaching, after all.

    7. Perform the interactive learning process

    Since you need to find the right tools that work for you, it is also important to make the learning experience as complete as possible: not only to read the words in cards or lists-listen to them, tell them out loud and write them (or digit them). The more you have an experience with words for all senses, the better. (Why not eat ice cream as you learn the various flavors?)

    8. Concentrate on useful words

    If you want to expand your vocabulary because you want to work in a marketing company abroad, you probably don’t have to read Shakespeare’s novels or focus on words that belong to the Middle Ages. The most practical and usual words in career, hobby and conversations in real life, easier are learning and you will be able to use them more often. (This can be like a game: you can reward yourself every time you have used a certain word in a conversation on real life.)

    9. Repeat, repeat, repeat

    Do not forget to repeat the current and old words, which you think you have already memorized. You don’t have to look at the words archived every time like the new vocabulary, but the more you use the words, the more easily you will remember them and you will use them more naturally.

  • How to become fluent in a year: complete guide

    How to become fluent in a year: complete guide

    Being fluent in a language is one of the most sought after and precious skills and the ability to communicate with people will always remain important. This is a certain thing.

    But there are about 750,000 words in English and Japanese or Chinese do not even use the same characters as European languages. Learn a foreign language It requires hard work and regardless of the language you choose, you will have to make a considerable effort. However, there are some strategies and tricks that can help you accelerate languages ​​learning.

    Here’s how you can become fluent in just 12 months:

    1 – 3 months

    Move abroad and surrounded by local culture

    There are limits within what you can learn in a class. To become really fluent, you have to use the language in any situation, always. Do you learn the Spaniard? Enter Madrid, Barcelona, Tamarind Beach or Buenos Aires. French? Time to spend a few months (at least!) In Paris OR Nisa. At the moment you will have to manage and find solutions to problems every day. In a short time, you will notice that the understanding of the language and the formulation of the responses become a second nature. This aspect is crucial if you learn a language with a completely different alphabet, such as Japanese or Chinese. You will develop a much better emphasis, you will practice daily without realizing it and, moreover, it is an excellent excuse to travel!

    Watch TV

    Try to look at the stories and dialogues of a series in a foreign language. The decoding of conversations while you see a scene helps the linguistic centers of the brain to understand new information in a more interesting way, similar to a puzzle, making you easier to learn what you have learned. Reading subtitles helps you to view the structure of the sentences and make sure you really understand what you feel. For example, looking at the series Friends It can help you improve your English (here are the others Perfect serial to improve your English), While Narcos On Netflix it will help you quickly improve your Spaniard.

    Ask, ask, ask

    «I do not understand!» It is no longer an expression that is at hand. But do not ignore an expression that you don’t fully understand, especially in the first months, when you probably have many unclear things. If you talk to someone, do not hesitate to ask, and if you read something and feel you lose it, they simply try Google. Studies show that you are more likely to keep things looking for them rather than learning them in the classroom, because you had to solve a problem alone. And you can’t contradict you with science!

    4 – 6 months

    Listen to the podcasts

    The time spent on the road can be used much better than only to look at the coils on Instagram. Start your fluidity formation by downloading a podcast course «How to learn X» and listen to one per day, until you feel comfortable to translate from oral speech. For example, the short and fun series 6 minutes English From the BBC it is a quick and effective way to improve your English. So look for a conversational podcast in the language you learn. Choose a topic that interests you (as reviews of films or gastronomy) and accustomed to the natural rhythm of the conversation, colloquial and unformed discussions. It’s like a conversation with friends, but without having to answer.

    Practice and learn constantly

    The key to learning any skills is consistency. Now that you start understanding the basic elements of your language, you spend a daily time in the program to really focus. He dedicates at least one hour every day to recapitulate the difficult rules of the grammar that put you in difficulty or to learn a completely new set of verbs. Practicals the next day to repair them well in long -term memory. Be severe (like when you have a diet or an exercise) – the more you invest, faster you will see excellent results.

    Learn in tandem

    Talking out loud is one of the best ways to learn, even if at the beginning it can be difficult, when you are not sure of yourself. Together with colleagues of the same ability, try to learn in tandem-talk, practice and improves together; The speech will soon become more natural. In addition, you will make many new friends, which is fantastic.

    7 – 9 months

    Read everything that falls in hand

    From books, classical literature and magazines, to the back of a pack of cereals, you get used to reading phrases correctly structured in all aspects of life. Follow foreign publications, blogs and popular sites on social networks so that, even when you waste time on Facebook or Instagram, use this time. The manuals can prepare your land for polite conversations and buy tickets by bus, but the best way to expand the understanding of the language is the diversification of the reading materials you expose.

    Now, more TV …

    … but without subtitles! After you manage to follow the Spaniards from NarcosTest your new skills by following Pablo Escobar’s Times. This series of documentaries presents the true story of the life of the feared king of drugs and is fully in Spanish. On the Internet, YouTube channels can accelerate your conversation skills; For the French, try to subscribe to Oh la la, Hollywood speaks French. Or learn during learning pursuing Tedx speaks in a foreign language. Not only will you discover innovative ideas from some of the brightest thinkers, but the speakers clearly express themselves and directly, which makes the conversation easy to follow.

    Monday 10 – 12

    Speaks forever

    After finishing the podcast courses, he leaves the headphones aside. When you are out, talk to the people you meet. Make friends of the native speakers and discuss exclusively in their language, this is, literally, the best way to practice. If you have moved to another country, involvement in a hobby can be an excellent way to meet people with similar interests.

    Keep your optimism

    Learning a foreign language is a challenge. A few days will make you feel that you are almost fluent, and in others it may seem that your mind has erected a wall against foreign languages. A very high wall. Instead of discouraging you, if you feel you have difficulty, look back to the previous months and think about how much you have evolved. Spend ten minutes read the notes from the course or exchange a simple text and you will see how easy it seems to you now, especially after a year! Persever and you will succeed.

  • How to improve written English: 7 tips

    How to improve written English: 7 tips

    Buy a bus ticket, go to the doctor, find an apartment or simply open your mouth and wear a routine conversation: most English students are anxious to speak; After all, learn English to communicate.

    But do not forget that writing is another extremely important aspect of communication, also in Snapchat and Instagram. To help you, I collected seven very useful tips to improve your written English.

    1. Read, laws, laws

    Do you have a vu? You are not alone. «Read more» is so often suggested for a better writing because it works! Reading presents you with a new vocabulary, interesting choices of beautiful words and phrases that you can use in your own writing. Don’t worry about what you «should» read. The idea is to read a lot and often. Novels, non-fiction, blogs, news articles, written magazines written (and well written), read it!

    2. Forbids these words

    To push your writing in another world, prohibit these words from your work: A lot, really, enough, well, stuff AND things. You may ask how to give up some simple words could help you write. Well, the truth is that these are useless words. They do not communicate strongly and without them, your text will mean the same thing – and it is much better to read!

    Additional advice: replaces «very/real + adjective» with an «extreme adjective». Very hungry Devine hungry. TO Run very quickly Devine a sprint. Really dirty Devine dirty. There are hundreds of such adjectives that you can use when you write.

    3. Use a dictionary

    After eliminating the words unnecessary in writing, it is time to choose excellent substitutes. Here is your new best friend, the dictionary. Use it to change the words you use too often with more interesting, adequate or advanced alternatives. ; However, be careful not to overdo it! Your writing must continue to be read naturally and make sense for the chosen audience (see point 5).

    4. Use and pay attention to the usual groups of words

    The groups of words are words that tend to go together, even if other combinations of words are also grammatically correct. Think about the phrase in the English «heavy rain». From a grammatical point of view, you could use «strong rain», but it seems strange for an expert speaker. Other situations include weak tea (not weak tea), exclusive pain (not excluding from joy), high trees (not high trees), purchase time (non -pig) and fast cars (not fast cars), among many others. Familiarity with typical phrases makes writing more natural.

    In order to increase the degree of awareness of the sentences, it begins with a basic word, how to do, do, obtain, break, tell and seek associated syntagmas. You can also start with a «type» of sentence and memorize some examples. Variants:

    • Adverb + adjecitiv (completely satisfied, widely available, bitterly disappointed)

    • Adjeciv + noun (strong coffee, intense traffic, grave time)

    • Verb + noun (commit suicide, do homework, make fine)

    • Noun + noun (an increase in anger, liqueur license, panic attack)

    5. Know your audience

    When you write, it is very important to write for your audience. Think: Use a different language when you update your CV compared to when you write a university essay or an article for your personal blog. In essence, the difference is the tone and the choice of words. So, before starting to write a text, consider:

    Is your text more formal, as a letter of enrollment in the university, a letter of intent or an essay? These texts are:

    • Usually complexes, with longer phrases and points explored in detail

    • Less emotional and are not designed to excite the reader

    • Usually written using extensive words («Can, he would not have, television»)

    On the other hand, you could write something informal, such as a blog post, a personal letter or a marketing action. In this case:

    • You can use a simpler language and shorter phrases to divide ideas

    • Includes contractions and abbreviations (as «I can’t, do, TV»)

    • Use a colloquial language and write as if you were talking directly with the reader (includes terms of jargon, style figures, differences and personal pronouns (I, you, mine, yours …)

    • Experience with empathy and emotion

    6. Opt for the asset instead of the liabilities

    For clearer and more concise writing, it is generally better to use the active voice rather than the passive one. (For example: «The shark was the surfers» is clearer and something more evocative than «the surfers was bitten by the shark».)

    Although there are often founded reasons to use the passive voice – as when you speak authoritatively («children are not allowed to swim without an adult») or to avoid the subject of the touch («the cause of the confusion was unknown»), you should avoid its use.

    7. Ask an expert’s opinion

    It is extremely difficult to learn yourself, so be courageous and ask for feedback on your writing. Good verifiers are English native speakers with an interest in writing and language, or unnatural speakers with an advanced level. After your corrector has checked your work, implement its advice and requires a final review before sending or publishing the article.

  • 5 suggestions that help you learn a foreign language

    5 suggestions that help you learn a foreign language

    Effective learning of foreign languages ​​cannot take place only in class. For lasting linguistic skills, research shows that linguistic dive is essential. This can mean studying abroad and being part of a mother tongue community, but there are also some simple changes that you can make in your daily life, which will help you in the linguistic dive process.

    Here are five of our favorite tips that help you learn a foreign language.

    Change the language used on your phone

    This trick is super simple. On average, we spend more than five hours a day on our cell phones. All this time you could expose yourself to another foreign language.

    Simply try to change the predetermined language settings of the phone to what you are currently learning. It will help you familiarize yourself with useful terms that meet every day – such as the date or time – and will ask you to think in that language and solve the problems every time you receive a notification. Brb, Langue Changement …

    READ BOOKS FOR CHILDREN AND FINS YA

    Reading is an excellent way to help you recognize grammar, the structure of the correct phrase and spelling. Trying to immediately read an intense mysterious novel will not help you, because the language used will probably be too complicated. However, children’s books and young people (Ya – young adults) are really useful to start with them. Children’s books are literally designed to help children learn to read and write. They turn to basic elements such as past, present and future times, but also the male and female elements of gender languages, such as French or Spanish.

    When you are ready to move on to the next level, YA novels have interesting intrigues and strong characters, but they are still written in a slightly simpler language, which makes them easier to understand for the younger audience, perfect for those who learn foreign languages.

    Listen to Podcasts for beginners

    Another fantastic way to improve your grammar and your pronunciation is to listen to Podcast in the language you study. Whether you learn to speak in French, German or English, there are many free podcasts designed for speakers at any level.

    As your linguistic skills are improving, you could try listening to interviews with celebrities or short podcasts of newspapers who will help you discuss current problems (destined to make you seem and feel more intelligent). Then put the headphones; This is an excellent option when you take the bus or train to go to lessons, when you take a walk or when you solve your homework.

    Follows the influences of native language

    The grandiose thing about this trick is that you can really adapt it to your interests. Whether you are passionate about travel, beauty, fashion, films, science or technology, rims of Christmas influences in these fields to follow on social networks. The next time you open Tiktok or Instagram, you will learn as you enjoy their content! It can help you improve things such as regional and modern colloquial accents. In addition, you will hear many terms belonging to the specific vocabulary that will help you if you want to talk to friends of this interest or even get a job in the sector. Advantages, advantages, advantages.

    Look at Netflix in the language you learn

    Are you ready to improve your pronunciation in the foreign language and in practice after a conversation? Try Netflix and learn! (Finally he will catch you. Comic programs are particularly good to understand the social norms and various senses of national humor. For example, you could see more sarcasm in the English shows and more exaggerated comedies in the American ones.

    You start looking at your favorite program in the new language, but with the subtitles activated. You will already know what is going on, but you can follow the dialogue in real time, both in the form of conversation and text. So choose a show that was created in the language you learn. When you feel safer, disable subtitles.

  • 5 myths about the learning of foreign languages ​​

    5 myths about the learning of foreign languages ​​

    There are many wrong ideas on learning a new language and some of them can make the way to fluidity seem impossible. The truth is that many of the things you have heard are only myths and learning to «Parler Français», for example, is not as difficult as it is often said.
    To help you start, we dismantle some of the common myths about the learning of foreign languages ​​and we have collected some useful tips to progress.

    1. You need natural talent to become fluent

    It is not true. Of course, having a natural inclination for languages ​​can be an advantage, but it is certainly not essential. In reality, fluidity is obtained through practice. The constant use of new skills is what develops and deepens the understanding of the language and culture that studies. The cultural exchange is also crucial: many aspects of the language, such as expressions, unusual phrases and argo, are closely linked to the popular culture and the history of a nation.

    Practical advice: Immersion in language and culture through studies abroad It is one of the best ways to become fluent and develop sustainable skills.

    2. Learning is a linear process

    We study, learn, improve ourselves, right? Well, it’s not that simple. A few weeks you will feel that you are doing enormous progress and sometimes you will be blocked in some grammatical rules or you will have difficulty To remember the new vocabulary. The process of learning a language will have ups and downs, as well as the learning of any other new skill. The secret is to accept these fluctuations and persevere.

    Practical advice: Keep a diary of your progress, recording both common and important moments. Even small victories, like the first order in the restaurant in the new language, deserve to be celebrated!

    3. If you are not fluent, it makes no sense to try to speak the language

    Can we press the «No» button? It is extremely important to speak the language you learn regularly, because this is one of the best ways to progress. In fact, you will probably never become fluent if you don’t do it! The more you speak, the more your emphasis will improve, you will understand the conversations more easily and you will earn more trust.


    Try to talk to the native speakers in different contexts: friends, colleagues, friendly staff of coffee and restaurants. If you study abroad, exercise with the host family or colleagues from apartments. This will help you expand your vocabulary and test your new skills.

    Practical advice: Don’t be afraid of errors. These are often the times when you learn more.

    4. The speech of another language is not so important

    False! Research shows that learning of another language is excellent for developing problems with the resolution of problems, empathy and communication and can even protect brain health as it ages. It allows you to have enriching cultural exchanges and connect with interesting and wonderful people to create completely new experiences. In addition, it opens many professional opportunities, allowing you to work with international teams or build your career abroad.

    Practical advice: Includes your multilingual skills in the CV: the employers love to see that you have studied another language, because this shows that you are dedicated and diligent.

    5. You have to learn how long you’re a child to become fluent

    Although it is true that, during childhood, our brain is more flexible (due to neuroplasticity) and language learning may seem easier, fluidity can also be achieved in adulthood. With an adequate teaching method, a regular and regular practical attitude, you can become fluent at any age. In fact, some studies suggest that advanced cognitive abilities, the motivation, the experience of life and the understanding of the shades of grammar and social that we acquire with age are a great advantage in learning languages.

    Practical advice: You will never be younger than you are now, so it doesn’t matter age, the language learning journey begins right now!

  • 11 daily expressions in English and their origins

    11 daily expressions in English and their origins

    Are you undoubtedly the best when you use English expressions? Or does the thought of the phrases apparently make you feel a little uncomfortable?

    One of the best methods for To truly master English It is to use expressions in conversations. The world of English idioms is large and its navigation may seem at the beginning discouraging. But don’t be afraid: we are here to break the ice with our 11 -day express list in English and their origins.

    What are the expressions?

    To become truly fluent in English, it is important to understand expressions and how to use them. The expressions have the role of describing the feelings of a person or a certain situation that have a definition beyond the literal words used. In essence, you cannot bring expressions to the nominal value: you have to learn and understand the meaning behind them.

    Although at the beginning they may seem confused, expressions are often used by native speakers, therefore they are very useful for tracing the conversation. In addition, the understanding of the origins and etymology of these practical sentences adds a new funny dimension to foreign learning. Continue reading to discover 11 daily expressions in English and discover their origins.

    1. Pour the beans

    Can it be used in a sentence?
    «Okay, the beans overturn but you can’t tell anyone else.» – Ok, I will pour the beans (I will tell you the secret), but you can’t tell anyone else.

    What does this mean?
    Share secret and/or private information to someone, usually evilly.

    Where does it come from?
    The most common theory on this expression is that it comes from ancient Greek politics. At that time, the people voted for something using beans of different colors (for example, a grain of white beans would be a «yes» and one of the black beans a «no».) The escape of literal beans would reveal the result of the vote.

    2. Once in a blue moon

    Can it be used in a sentence?
    «I doubt Jonny will come to the cinema with us tonight – is only available once in a blue moon these days.» – I doubt Jonny will come to the cinema with us tonight – it is only available when it is a blue moon in these days (very rare).

    What does this mean?
    Very rare.

    Where does it come from?
    A monthly cycle lasts about 29-30 days, so we usually have 12 per year. A «blue moon» is used to describe the rare event of the 13th full month in a year or the second full moon in a single calendar month. This happens on average every two and a half years and is now used more generally as an expression that describes everything is considered a rare event.

    3. A red flag

    Can it be used in a sentence?
    «To say that playing video games matters as an exercise is a defined red flag.» – To say that video games count that exercise is a clear red flag.

    What does this mean?
    A cause of concern, often used in relation to a potential romantic partner.

    Where does it come from?
    The red flags were used by people throughout history to indicate the danger. They have been worn by the army since 1700 to report that a battle was about to start and are now used. For example, red flags are used in the Formula 1 car races to report a serious accident or dangerous weather conditions on the track. The description of the behavior or characteristic of a person as a «red flag» simply means that it is a warning sign on its true nature.

    4. Bitting the bullet

    Can it be used in a sentence?
    «I hate going to the dentist but I have to bite the projectile.» – I hate going to the dentist, but I have to bite the bullet (I accept heartless).

    What does this mean?
    Accept something without a heart.

    Where does it come from?
    A little disturbing. Invented for the first time by the English writer Rudyard Kipling, it was suggested that this sentence comes from surgery before the anesthetic invention. Patients often change a bullet between the teeth to cope with pain (at that time, the bullets were made of softer metal). Ouch.

    5. Hands

    Can it be used in a sentence?
    «Taylor Swift is undoubtedly the best singer of all time.» – Taylor Swift is, without a doubt (without a doubt), the best singer of all time.

    What does this mean?
    Without a doubt; Obviously; indisputable.

    Where does it come from?
    This expression derives from the horses of horses of the nineteenth century, of course. If a race were won with a very high difference in a very high score, people would say on the pilot who had won «with low hands – indisputable». This meant that he could even leave the reins of the horse and relax for the last part of the race, with «hands down». Now we use it to describe everything we think is beyond any doubt or discussion.

    6. break a leg

    Can it be used in a sentence?
    «Break a leg to the show tonight!» – Brea one leg (good luck) to the show tonight!

    What does this mean?
    Fortune!

    Where does it come from?
    This unusual expression is used to hate the fortune of someone before a show, especially in theatrical acting. There are some theories on how this counterintuitive expression appeared, with an example (again) attributed to ancient Greece. At that time, people were blocked instead of applauding if he liked a show, so the idea of ​​someone to make enough strength to break a leg would indicate a good show. And don’t forget: saying «luck» to an interpreter before going on stage is actually considered to bring bad luck to date. It makes sense, right?

    7. I break the ice

    Can it be used in a sentence?
    «At the beginning the party was a little embarrassing, so I started a game to break the ice.» – At the beginning the party was a bit strange, so I started a game to break the ice.

    What does this mean?
    Delete the tension in a first meeting or a social event.

    Where does it come from?
    This is a very common expression that most likely comes from navigation since 1800. Special boats have been used to break the ice in the frozen parts of the ocean to ensure the safe passage of the rest of the fleet. It is now used in the figurative sense to describe when someone does something (for example, to start a game) to facilitate the initial tension or the left at the beginning of a social event.

    8. Under the time

    Can it be used in a sentence?
    «He did not have dinner because I feel a little under the time.» – I won’t make us dinner tonight because I feel a little under the time (I feel a little bad).

    What does this mean?
    Feel bad or sick. This is used to describe slight rather than serious diseases.

    Where does it come from?
    The British likes to talk about time. Another example that probably comes from navigation: if the sailors were getting sick or hurt during a strong storm, they went under the deck to rest and recover. This has been described as literally «in time», although the expression now describes any sense of disease that someone might have.

    9. Beat around the bush

    Can it be used in a proprosion?
    «Helena beat the bush for an hour before she told me what she meant.» – Helena beat the bush (avoided) for an hour before telling me what she meant.

    What does this mean?
    Avoids discussing a topic directly; Take a lot of time to reach the main point of a conversation.

    Where does it come from?
    This expression can be observed until over 500 years ago. When he hunted the birds in the past, a person beat the bushes in the forest, to do them and for a second person to shoot. The beating around the bush (and not the bush itself) would therefore be indirect and useless, because they would not make the birds fly.

    10. Close but no cigar

    Can it be used in a sentence?
    «He was close but no cigar for Arsenal, since they lost the final in the last minute.» – He was close, but not a cigar (a failure) for Arsenal, because they lost the final in the last minute.

    What does this mean?
    Being close to achieving something, but in the end to fail.

    Where does it come from?
    At the end of the 1800s, carnival games were rather for adults than for children. Instead of a teddy bear bear, the cigars were common prizes for these games. If someone wins almost, but in the end he could not win the prize, it was said that he was close, but not cigar.

    11. ride rifle

    Can it be used in a sentence?
    «I don’t mind riding the rifle if you prefer to drive.» – It does not bother me to go with the rifle (being a passenger) if you prefer to drive.

    What does this mean?
    Travel on the passenger seat of a car.

    Where does it come from?
    Wild West. In this era in the history of the United States, the diligences that travel through large and distant parts of the country would have been vulnerable to dangerous and bandaged animals. For protection, someone was going in front of the driver with a rifle. Today it is common for people to say «Shotgun!» claim the front seat of a car if there is more than one passenger.

    Now you are ready to revive your next conversation in English, both with these daily expressions and the fascinating stories of their origins.

    Sources: British, The Henry Ford, Grammar, Promotes writing

  • What is the best age to learn a foreign language?

    What is the best age to learn a foreign language?

    Although our understanding of the learning of foreign languages ​​evolves continuously, we are surrounded by myths on children who are far superior to assimilating them, influencing others to give up the challenge. But the truth is that anyone can – and should – learn a new language, regardless of age. That’s why.

    How we learn

    Language learning is an essential function of the brain that allows us to give meaning to the world in which we live. Without exposure to a certain language in early childhood, we grow with a very limited ability to discover it. The stories of abandoned children have tragically demonstrated the importance of early exposure to a language and the price we pay if we are deprived of communication in the early years.

    But the children are actually ready to listen and imitate the languages ​​they also feel Before Birth and studies have shown that, even without words, children cry and communicate «with accent». The ability to speak in their mother tongue is built on this deep base and their ability to express themselves progresses at an extraordinary rapid rhythm in the first years of life.

    Children acquire linguistic skills through a process that scientists call «predefined learning»: absorption and imitation of what they feel. They simply focus on the acquisition of the means to communicate what they want in the most efficient way possible.

    I am not I think learning of foreign languages, but simply a face.

    Because we learn

    Children are also ready to learn a quick language to survive and thrive, both at home and in the wider social framework. Although they can receive instructions in the language they use, they remain basically unstructured students, immersed in the language and learn through a process of continuous and disordered experimentation.

    Bilingual or multilingual children are able to practice in different efforts without effort, preparing (both the brain and the brain!) For a series of benefits for life.

    But when it comes to foreign languages, learning never ends up and, in many ways, our desire to expand our linguistic horizons increases only when we age.

    If we refer to our mother tongue, we are, in fact, natural students, throughout our life. One of the greatest language learning studies ever recently concluded that up to 30 years of age to master a foreign language. And throughout life, we add words, we learn new expressions and adopt new terms of jargon; We evolve with the language with which we were born, developing a more sophisticated and nuanced ability to express ourselves during this process.

    In an increasingly connected world, we are also pushed to learn new languages ​​to participate in global discussions, consume media world, trade or work internationally and develop relationships and friends that go beyond the boundaries. Without learning a global language such as English or Spanish, for example, we can feel separate from the world in the most literal sense.

    So why – despite our innate desire and need to expand our linguistic horizons – we hesitate so often to accept the challenge?

    We go out of our head – and we enter the world

    It is normal to hear adults, even young people, saying that they are too old to learn a new language and that it is too difficult. And many – even if they may not want to recognize – hesitates because they do not feel comfortable in making mistakes in front of others.

    But is it really more difficult to learn a foreign language as we age?

    Although a wide and recent study conducted in MIT has concluded that some aspects of fluidity in a language are linked to childhood exposure, a perfect understanding of the specific rules of English grammar, for example, there is few tests that teenagers and adults are less efficient in learning foreign languages ​​compared to younger children, especially children.

    Some studies, including a study on Bilingual Orators of Catalan and Spanish English, have even shown that adults learn Faster of children.

    Our extensive research also shows that adults – even beginners – can make quick progress, especially if they learn immersed in a immersed way. Joshua Hartshorne, assistant professor of psychology at Boston College and the main author of the study of the myth, confirms it, claiming that «I would learn in an immersive environment. The immersion has a huge effect in our being great in relation to rather large differences».

    The immersion works because it makes natural, necessary, continuous and fun learning.

    But there is a further advantage that adult students hold: an approach structured to learning itself.

    Looking for structure

    Through school, we realize what works for us, as students. While some of us learn to listen, others must note things and memorize rules and formulas. Until we become young adults, we learned Cum Let’s learn.

    This more structured approach is deeply precious when a new language is learned, precisely because languages ​​are very structured by their nature.

    Of course, the duration of attention is important. Having a lot of structure, you like more concentration and an ability to pay attention that children simply don’t have; An ability that Antonella Sorace, professor of linguistics and director of the Bilingualism Matters Center of the University of Edinburgh, label it as «explicit learning», in contrast with the most predefined way they learn.

    Embrace our goals

    As we age, our goals in terms of studies and careers become clearer and can help us motivate us. For example, we could be motivated to learn French because we want to become diplomats, speak fluently in English so that we can have an international career or achieve a level of conversation in Korean because we like K-pop.

    In other words, «because» it becomes a strong factor in our success as «how».

    Social connections play a role in this. Like children, adults are likely to learn a new language faster if they are able to relate to other students and use their new skills in social environments that bring them joy.

    But as on any trip, learning a language is easier if we know where we are going.

    Avoid the fluidity trap

    Should fluidity be the final goal for learning a new language? Becoming fluent in a new language is difficult. And takes time. Some languages ​​are more difficult to learn than others – English is relatively easy, for example – to obtain fluidity is a function of prolonged effort and exposure, even for children who make it less aware.

    However, the fixing of fluidity can be demotivating. Although it is a long -term valid goal for many, it is much better – and more productive – to set more defined and realistic objectives for learning; Being able to read and easily understand the language, for example, or simply feel safe in communication in daily situations or with new friends.

    And, although having tangible objectives is crucial for the success of any student, seeing how we benefit from learning a language in a wider sense can help us motivate us.

    Understanding of the general picture

    The learning of foreign languages ​​does not take place in the void. Studies have shown that sinking into a new culture and connecting with people beyond the limits and cultural borders can make us more creative.

    When we learn a new language and we feel comfortable in changing speaking in one language or another, we can also go from a perspective and different ways to see the world, making us more empathetic and understanding in accepting others.

    Talking about different languages ​​can help us feel more connected with others and, allowing us to travel more, can increase self -confidence, as numerous studies all over the world show.

    At the most fundamental level, the learning of foreign languages ​​allows us to communicate and connect with others and to realize that we are all together. And despite what wisdom has received, there has never been an old age for this.

  • How to improve English spoken: 8 tips

    How to improve English spoken: 8 tips

    When you ask students who learn a foreign language what their goals are, almost everyone will say: «To improve my speech». When you study abroad, you wake up to talk to all types of native speakers: your teacher, the restaurant employees, the taxi drivers and the owner of the apartment they rent, so it is very important to feel comfortable. The same as to improve writing in English, listening or any other ability, there are techniques that you can use to improve spoken English. Here are eight of our favorites:

    1. Speak, speak, speak

    Let’s start by saying that there is no magic pill to talk better. It would be too easy, right? Basically, the best way to speak better is to speak! Exercise often and with many different people. Do you live or studies already abroad? Take advantage of the thousands of native speakers in your immediate community, such as your friends, their families, your colleagues, classmates, coffee, supermarkets, post office and other places you visit. If you learn in your country, increase the time of practice by meeting your classmates after the course, finding a linguistic exchange partner or one of an online community.

    2. Reflect on the conversations

    After the end of your conversation, take a moment to reflect. How did it go? How much do you think you understand? How much do you feel comfortable on this topic? Have you met unknown words? The simple fact that we have thought about it in this way will increase your trust for the next time you speak (and you will reveal the things for which they work, for example a vocabulary that you have not understood).

    3. Listen and read

    Do you need words to speak, right? The class hour is excellent for learning a new vocabulary, but there are other ways in which you can improve it: watch movies, listen to music, radio and podcast. Read books, magazines and blogs. When you listen and read, it finds new and interesting expressions, terms of jargon and synonyms, note this new material and seeks explanations for any word that you are not familiar. All this will give you a wider base to use the next time you train.

    4. Prepare the notes

    A part of the nervousness around the speech is the feeling of not knowing what to say. To fight this, prepare a sheet with the notes. Are you going to the doctor? Before programming, check the vocabulary relating to your condition and some common expressions you probably need. Use the technique before paying an invoice, to eat at the restaurant, to participate in interviews at work, to present a complaint or any other situation that could worry.

    5. Talk on the phone

    Most people find themselves particularly difficult to call. Why? Because, on the phone, we cannot observe the interlocutor’s body language or see the mouth move, both being tools that really help communication. To feel more confident on the phone, it starts little with telephone conversations with friends, so do more difficult calls, such as making an appointment or asking for information. (This is a great time to use tips 4 and prepare a list of questions and a useful vocabulary to help you during the call!)

    6. Record your voice

    We know, we know that the most firm people do not like to listen to their recorded voice, but in reality it is an extremely advantageous way to improve your speech! If you feel on the ribbon, you will discover things you may not do (perhaps you hold to speak quickly when you are excited, swallow the «s» or the mumble). On the other hand, you may be pleasantly surprised to hear that your speech is much better than you think! You can take the recording of your teacher or a mother tongue friend and you can ask him to give yourself feedback.

    7. Learn expressions rather than individual words

    Another suggestion to increase fluidity is to speak using a variety of expressions, rather than individual words. (Probably you always do it in your mother tongue. «Hey friend!» O «how are you going, friend?» (Be careful, however: some expressions will be very informal and are not ideal for certain situations!)

    8. Have fun

    We recognize. It is much easier to learn something new when you have fun. Take when you practice talking to yourself when you are alone, singing folk songs aloud in English, doing diction exercises (try the expressions that are difficult to pronounce in English) or say «improvised speeches» of one minute on randomly chosen topics (such as snakes, coffee «, first, egg or chicken?»). Great practice and a lot of fun, fun.