Source: The Chambers Dictionary

Do you consider yourself to be fluent in your second, third or fourth language? Are you actually fluent in your first language, or do you still reach for the dictionary when you hear or see a word you don’t recognise?

In our native language we don’t know all the words. We never will. So how many do we need to know before we consider ourselves fluent?

Fluency isn’t just about knowing a vast range of vocabulary. As a serious language learner you are likely to have the desire to ‘just talk’, whilst sounding correct. Be careful not to try to speak too quickly, as this is when problems can occur. An understanding native will listen and wait for you to finish, and gently correct you if necessary. This type of correction in a ‘live’ situation is invaluable as you are likely to remember what you’re being told, so you shouldn’t make the same mistakes twice.

Speaking on the telephone can be quite challenging, as you don’t have the benefit of facial expression. Slow down, speak clearly and listen carefully.

Your fluency will improve with practice, and you’ll find yourself gradually speaking more fluidly and with less pauses and hesitation. When this starts to happen you will really feel you are progressing.

Given time fluency will come naturally. The more exposure and practice you have the faster you will converse confidently.

Aim high, but be realistic. You would have to be of a very high standard to be mistaken for a native. You may have lived in a country for years, but because of your original accent still be seen as a ‘foreigner’. But that doesn’t stop you having the goal to succeed and the determination to speak with as much ease as you can.

Accents and dialects vary in every language. It’s probable you sometimes can’t understand people from your own country if they have a very strong local accent. The meanings of words can be conveyed in a number of ways when trying to speak fluently. Use of your voice and using the correct intonation of sounds can help make you understood. Try not to sound stilted and forced, but allow your words to flow.

Being able to hold a conversation, and reply to the person you are conversing with demands a certain degree of fluency. If you can do this comfortably the beginnings of fluency are taking hold.