Best Speaking Practice for Language Learning

When it comes to language learning, speaking often feels like the most intimidating skill to master. It’s one thing to grasp grammar rules and memorize vocabulary, but actually stringing those words together in real-time? That’s a different challenge altogether. (and many people skill speaking practice altogether).

The good news? Speaking is a skill that can absolutely improve with deliberate practice. Whether you’re shy about speaking or just don’t know where to start, this guide is here to help. Below, we’ll explore proven tips to make your speaking practice more effective (and yes, even fun).

The Secret to Speaking Practice That Works

The most crucial trick to improving your speaking skills? Active Recall.

Active recall is the practice of trying to remember something without looking it up first. When you work your brain to recall words or phrases, you’re training it to actively retrieve that information when needed. Instead of passively reviewing vocabulary, practice forming sentences or phrases on your own first, then go back and fill in the gaps where necessary.

This method challenges your brain in ways passive learning cannot and builds the confidence you need to use the language fluently.

Now, with this principle in mind, let’s jump into the specific strategies to level up your speaking.

1. Talk to Yourself

Talking to yourself might feel a little strange at first, but trust us, it’s one of the most practical ways to practice speaking.

Narrate Your Day in Your Target Language

Describe what’s happening around you or explain your plans for the day in your target language. For example, while making breakfast, you might say in Spanish, “Estoy preparando huevos y tostadas para desayunar.”

If you’re unsure of how to describe something, jot it down in your native language and look it up later. The next time you’re in a similar situation, you’ll be equipped with the right phrase!

Sing in Your Target Language

Singing your favorite songs in your target language is an incredible way to practice pronunciation and rhythm. Choose a song, look up the lyrics, and sing along. Even if you don’t understand everything initially, singing makes speaking both engaging and memorable.

2. Mimic What You Hear on TV

Turn your binge-watching habit into a speaking exercise. Pick a movie, show, or clip in your target language, and repeat what the speakers say, mimicking their tone, speed, and pronunciation. This is known as the “shadowing” technique.

Why This Speaking Practice Works

• You naturally pick up nuances like intonation and sentence rhythm.
• It’s a fantastic way to expand your vocabulary.
• You’ll sound more like a native speaker over time.

For extra practice, turn on subtitles in your target language to follow along and reinforce the connection between written and spoken words.

Try out our Mimic Review tool FREE – listen to native speakers and record yourself. This is the fastest and simplest way to practice your speaking.

3. Find Friends on Language Exchange Apps

Practicing with others is one of the most effective ways to improve your speaking skills. Language exchange apps like Tandem or HelloTalk make it easy to connect with native speakers.

Start with Text Messages

If you’re nervous about real-time conversations, text first. While it might seem unrelated to speaking, texting allows you to familiarize yourself with common phrases and sentence structures, building your confidence.

Progress to Voice Messages

Send voice notes instead of typing. Voice messages give you time to structure your sentences and practice pronunciation while still simulating a real conversation.

Graduate to Calls or Video Chats

When you’re ready, hop on a video call! Conversations can still feel slightly daunting, but they’re the closest you’ll get to practicing in real-life scenarios. Focus on key phrases, relax, and make mistakes—that’s where real learning happens.

4. Hire a Tutor (Paid Option)

If you’re ready to invest in your speaking skills, hiring a tutor is a game-changer. Professional tutors can tailor lessons specifically to your goals, correct your mistakes immediately, and push you outside your comfort zone.

Platforms like iTalki, Preply, and Verbling allow you to connect with tutors for affordable 1-on-1 sessions.

Pro Tip:

If real-time lessons are intimidating, prepare a script or topic in advance. This way, you’ll have structure and gain confidence over time.

5. Talk with AI in Your Target Language

Can’t find a conversation partner? AI tools like chatbots and virtual assistants can help! You can even use built-in assistants like Siri by switching their language to your target one.

Why Do Speaking Practice with AI?

• AI provides instant feedback if it doesn’t understand you.
• You can practice without any judgment or anxiety.
• It’s available anytime, making it perfect for busy schedules.

Example:

Ask your virtual assistant for weather updates or directions in your target language to practice everyday phrases.

Overcoming Common Speaking Practice Challenges

Speaking a language can be tough, even with consistent practice. Here are some common hurdles and how to tackle them:

Anxiety

Fear of making mistakes often stops people from practicing. To overcome this, remind yourself that mistakes are essential to learning. Native speakers won’t judge you—in fact, most will appreciate your effort!

Listening Comprehension

Understanding others is just as important as speaking. To strengthen listening skills, immerse yourself in your target language through podcasts, songs, and TV shows.

Limited Vocabulary or Grammar

If you feel stuck, it might be because your vocabulary or grammar is limiting your ability to express yourself. Dedicate time to learning the most commonly used phrases and grammatical structures for casual conversations.

What Other Skills Do I Need To Master A Foreign Language?

There are 4 core skills you need to master a foreign language.

Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking.

• Listening – Best Listening Practices for Languages Learners (article coming soon).
• Reading – Best Reading Practices for Languages Learners (article coming soon).
• Writing – Best Writing Practices for Languages Learners (article coming soon).

Mastering all these components in sync is the secret to becoming fluent in any language.

Wrap-Up: Speaking Practice Takes Time, but You’ve Got This

Speaking doesn’t happen overnight, but with consistent practice, you’ll get there. Try the tips above, sprinkle in some patience, and don’t forget to enjoy the process. Remember, every mistake you make is just another step closer to fluency.

Which tip will you try first? Start practicing today, and watch your speaking skills soar!