When it comes to language learning, we often come across the word ‘fluency’. But what does it mean exactly? Simply put, fluency is the ability to articulate a message smoothly when writing and speaking.
The most common metrics associated with measuring fluency are:
Another word related to language learning is proficiency, which is often confused with fluency. While they’re tied concepts, being fluent doesn’t necessarily mean being proficient. While fluency refers to the ability to speak a language smoothly, proficiency measures how accurately one can talk, listen, write, and read in different real-world situations and contexts.
There is no official chart measuring fluency, but there are metrics used to analyze it:
Fluent
|
Smooth and natural speed and rhythm |
Advanced
|
Minor hesitations or pauses |
Intermediate
|
Slow pace with some hesitations and self-corrections |
Beginner
|
Frequent pauses, hesitations, and searching for words |
That being said, it’s important to mention that when measuring second language skills, we’re often directed to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), which includes six levels of proficiency. For example, one of the world’s most popular English language learning organizations – the British Council – uses it to assess and teach language skills.
According to CEFR, you’re proficient if you can easily understand nearly all written material, synthesize information from multiple spoken and written domains, and spontaneously articulate thoughts with precision, even in challenging contexts.
Proficient | C2 | Understands intricate and complex ideas with precision and fluency. |
C1 | Articulates concepts with ease and adapts language use to different scenarios. | |
Independent | B2 | Interprets sophisticated writing and conversations with native speakers. |
B1 | Manages typical daily situations and can write basic text on familiar topics. | |
Basic | A2 | Handles basic interactions and can express immediate needs. |
A1 | Uses and understands everyday expressions for simple interactions. |
Reaching fluency in English is not easy, but it’s also not an otherworldly achievement. We’ve come up with some top tips and tricks that make your journey to fluency that much more straightforward.
This is one of the best tips to learn English or any other language. Fortunately, it can be more easily applied to English than to other languages because it’s the most commonly used language across the world. Make sure to:
One-on-one lessons dramatically increase the effectiveness of the learning process, allowing students to develop a personalized learning style tailored to their specific strengths and weaknesses.
This not only speeds up retention but also allows you to fix your errors before they become an ongoing habit. For instance, the British Council English Online is an excellent option for learning English. It offers group and 25-minute private classes, from A1 to C1, taught by skilled teachers that you can choose from all over the world.
Plus, it frequently offers seasonal promotions and discounts, and some of its plans include a 7-day free trial, which is a great way to try the service risk free.
Most people starting to learn a new language don’t feel comfortable speaking it out loud, at least in the first few months. This may be due to internal or external pressure to say everything correctly in public.
One way to overcome this is to simply practice speaking all by yourself. While there are plenty of free online videos all over the internet to practice speaking, we suggest using British Council English Online’s speaking practice tests.
Of course, grammar is certainly an important aspect of learning a new language, but focusing too much on it might hinder the whole process. The truth is that even if your grammar isn’t spot on, people will still understand you.
Even native speakers frequently break the grammar rules of their language and can still communicate effectively. With that in mind, when you start learning English, focus on speaking and communicating ideas as best as possible. Then, later on you’ll be able to absorb grammar rules much more quickly.
This tip is especially helpful for those who worry about how long it will take to master English fluency, spending too much time pondering the ifs and buts instead of simply practicing the language.
One of the most predominant differences between a native and non-native English speaker is their vocabulary. While English is considered one of the easiest languages to learn, its vocabulary is one of the largest worldwide.
This means it might take a while to capture the richness of the language, so it’s recommended that you actively expand your vocabulary as much as possible. It’s also essential to understand how you should use it.
For example, saying ‘exhausted’ instead of ‘very tired’, or ‘ecstatic’ instead of ‘very happy’. Your vocabulary directly affects fluency and helps you grasp how to speak a language like locals more quickly, including English.
When learning a new language, it’s common to get frustrated and demotivated, usually if we feel like we’re not making any process. One way to make the journey more exciting is to incorporate topics that align with your interests.
For example, if you enjoy playing a game, you can change its language to English and immerse yourself in it. This will help you become more knowledgeable of the language and improve your English fluency level.
When learning a new language, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Despite being widely spoken, English still presents some challenges. Becoming fluent in English comes with many benefits but requires patience and practice. However, following our tips will significantly improve your learning journey.
Ultimately, the most valuable tip is to immerse yourself in the language as much as possible since that’s how we naturally learn and absorb it. In addition, taking online English classes with skilled tutors offered by services like the British Council English Online is an excellent way to develop your skills faster and manage your learning journey more effectively.
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