This week, we answer a question from a listener who writes: I work with some native speakers of English. I want to practice speaking with them so I'll improve my English. But sometimes, I get nervous, so our conversation ends quickly. How can I talk with these friends for a long time?
You are right. It is not always easy to keep a conversation going in English. You might not be sure about what to say. Or maybe you are afraid that your pronunciation is not good.
First, remember the importance of listening. Listen to the other person carefully. So that you can ask a follow-up question. For example, let's say the other person tells you, "I just got back from a trip to Canada". You can follow up with a question using Who, What, Where, When, Why, or How: Where did you go in Canada? What was your favorite place there? How was the food there? If you want to keep a conversation going, it's a good idea to ask questions that cannot be answered with a simple 'yes' or 'no'. If the other person asks you a 'yes' or 'no' question, try to give a longer answer to help keep the conversation going. For example, a friend might ask, "Hey, have you seen the newStar Warsmovie? You could just answer, "No, I haven't". Or, you could say more. You could answer, "No, but I plan to see it soon. How about you?"
Do not worry about your pronunciation. If your pronunciation is a little different, the other person will still understand your message if you try speaking slowly and clearly. When you're travelling in an English-speaking country and have some free time, be brave and speak in English with someone who does not look too busy. You may make a new friend.
OK, that's it. We would like to hear from you. Please understand that we cannot answer all of the questions our listeners send us.
