How to Speak English Without Fear

You may want to learn to speak in English fluently for several reasons. You may be a non-native student or working professional studying or working in the U.S. or an individual looking to make a trip to an English-speaking country. Many non-native English speakers have a fear of speaking the language, mainly because of the thought that they may end up speaking English incorrectly, which may make them look foolish in front of an audience. You can reduce your fear of speaking English by improving your confidence in your language abilities. With relentless practice, you can improve your language skills and build your confidence.

Make English a part of your life. Speak English at home. Read English novels. Watch English news and movies to improve your speaking accent and language comprehension; English movies with subtitles can help expand your vocabulary, too. Talk to yourself in English. All this practice helps you to think in English.

Keep a vocabulary notebook. Enter new words daily. Use online dictionaries to determine meaning and pronunciation. Maintain an English diary.

Listen to English music--a good way to increase your language comprehension and improve your accent. Take advantage of online websites offering song lyrics. Write down the lyrics. Play the song. Read the lines along with the song.

Take English vocabulary and grammar tests online. There are free websites to help you. Start with World English and Easy English, which offer numerous online grammar and vocabulary exercises, along with audio lessons.

Practice speaking English in front of a mirror. Also effective--record your voice as you speak. Play the tape and check for word phrasing and pronunciation. Recording regularly also lets you know how well you have progressed. Ask friends to act as audience to your efforts. Have them chart your progress.