Want to Speak Like a Native? Here’s What You Need to Know!

3 Tips to Reduce Your Accent & Sound More Native

Do you dream of sounding more like a native English speaker? Many English learners ask this question, and I’m excited to share some great news—it’s absolutely possible! You don’t have to lose your accent or speak perfectly to sound more natural.

It’s all about picking up on small, practical things like using contractions, connecting words, and choosing the right phrases. In this guide, I’ll share some simple tips to help you speak more like a native speaker. Plus, I’ll explain how using AI tools and working with a teacher can make your learning journey faster and easier!

Master Contractions and Connected Speech

Native speakers often use contractions to sound smoother and more natural. We do this naturally, and it’s not something we think about that much. Try to shadow these examples:

• “I am” becomes “I’m”  

• “You are” becomes “You’re”

Native speakers also blend sounds together. This is more common in casual and familiar situations. We wouldn’t speak like this in business or formal interactions. For instance:

• “What do you do?” sounds like “Whaddayado”

• “A buddy of mine” becomes “Abuddyamine”

To practice, listen closely to how native speakers pronounce words, make contractions, and merge words together. Then, try to shadow them by repeating the sounds that they make. You can use Youglish.com for this activity.

This technique is called shadowing and it’s a beneficial method to help you reduce your accent and sound more like a native speaker!

Want to learn more? Check out my blog about connected speech

Use Native-Like Expressions and Slang

Using native expressions and correct collocations can help you sound more like a native speaker. It’s not just about how you say the words, but which words and expressions you choose. Here are some examples of more natural alternatives:

• Basic form: “I am very busy this week.”
  Native expression: “I have a lot on my plate this week.”

• Unnatural form: “I was thinking in you.”
  Native word collocation: “I was thinking about you.”

Native speakers often use slang, expressions, and specific word collocations in everyday conversations, and these phrases can make your speech sound more natural. The more you listen to native speakers and expose yourself to English, the better you’ll understand these expressions, become familiar with word collocations, and feel confident using them!

Want to learn more? Check Out My Idiom & Business English Courses

Additional Tips & Resources

Do you have a favorite accent—American, British, Australian, or another? It’s much easier to start sounding like a native if you choose a specific geographical pronunciation. Although this is not necessary, it makes it easier to focus on a specific pronunciation and familiarize yourself with the local expressions and vocabulary. This can be very useful if you plan to live or study abroad in that country.

You can use Youglish to search for any word you want to hear pronounced by native speakers. The app finds videos of native speakers using that word in real-life contexts, providing you with practical examples.

Additionally, you can listen to podcasts and music and watch movies or videos in your chosen dialect. This is a great way to apply the first two rules. Shadow these native speakers and listen to how they blend words together. Try to mimic them! You can record yourself to hear where your pronunciation is correct and where you need to improve. Also, notice what word collocations they use and pay attention to the common slang and expressions.

The more you listen and practice, the easier it becomes to understand and speak with that accent! This will also help you improve your listening skills.

Get Feedback!

I also recommend using apps like Elsa Speak or other AI tools. These apps listen to your speech and provide tips to help you correct your pronunciation mistakes. By combining feedback from AI, you’ll build your confidence when speaking.

While practicing on your own is helpful, getting feedback from a teacher can take your skills to the next level. A teacher can identify the sounds you have difficulty with and give you guidance and practice to help you improve in those specific areas. We are trained professionals who understand the nuances of the language and can help you work on stress and intonation. Additionally, we can correct your word collocations and provide regular feedback, ensuring you start to sound more like a native speaker in your conversations.

As an ESL teacher, I specialize in helping students improve their pronunciation and speak more naturally and confidently. As my student, you will receive pronunciation corrections during class time. After class, I will send you pronunciation feedback with activities that will help you improve on your weak areas. If you’re looking for personalized feedback and coaching, book a FREE COURTESY CLASS with me today!

Listen to My Podcast for More Pronunciation Tips!

Start Speaking More Like a Native Today!

Remember, sounding more like a native speaker takes time and practice. Start listening to native speakers, pay attention to the details of their pronunciation, and shadow them. Focus on the little things—like using contractions, learning everyday expressions, and getting feedback from both a teacher and AI tools. It’s not about having a perfect accent; it’s about speaking clearly and confidently!

If you’re ready to take your English to the next level, I’m here to support you on your journey! Book a FREE COURTESY CLASS with me today!