Why is it so Difficult to Speak like a Native?

Learning a foreign language can be an exceptionally difficult process, especially for those who are not regularly in contact with native speakers and their culture.  This is why many people find it hard to speak like a native speaker even if their knowledge of grammar and vocabulary is strong.

Inconsistent contact with the native culture

As opposed to other areas of foreign language learning, correct pronunciation is difficult to learn outside a community of native speakers.  Unfortunately, not all English as a second language (ESL) learners have the opportunity to spend adequate time among native speakers of the language they are learning.  Vacations in particular countries are rarely useful for advancing language proficiency, as it has been determined that in most cases foreign learners need continuous contact with the target culture and native pronunciation.  ESL Learners can stay in touch with the target language through music and movies but even this is difficult in countries that tend to synchronize the movies instead of translating them.

SEE ALSO: 5 Rules for Excellent English Pronunciation

Absence of native instructors

One of the most effective ways to learn correct pronunciation is to be instructed by a native lecturer.  This way you gain first-hand knowledge both about the culture and about language use.  However, due to cost and an inadequate number of trained teachers, foreign language learners rarely get such an opportunity.  In the era of online services, many people are turning to learning languages online.

Improper online resources

Online resources make it possible for learners to access many language learning software applications.  However, it is often difficult to find an appropriate and practical program because of the plethora of them offered.  The major problem is that for most programs, pronunciation is a secondary focus and, therefore, learners assume that pronunciation is unimportant.

Consequences

It is often said that what we say is more important than how we say it.  However, incorrect manner of speech may easily result in misinterpretations which can have unintended consequences.  Even if you are speaking correctly, incorrect articulation or intonation may make your speech appear funny or even rude.  Besides this, your own attitude may suffer.  Those who are aware that their pronunciation is challenged tend to be less confident in their use of the foreign language and this makes it more challenging to learn effective communication.

To improve your pronunciation and learn to speak like a native you will need an appropriate tool as well as a lot of practice.  If there is not a native language teacher to guide you through the process of learning pronunciation, you should make sure that you choose an effective solution which adequately compensates for this.  Be specific in your search for an appropriate tool and consistent about your intention to improve your pronunciation.  This will give you a great head start in improving your pronunciation.