When are you fluent in another language?

  Рет қаралды 117,097

British Council

British Council

8 жыл бұрын

Britain's most multilingual student, Alex Rawlings, defines what it means to be fluent in another language.
UK people, find opportunities to study, work and create abroad: www.britishcouncil.org/study-...
Music: www.bensound.com
All photos Mat Wright, except:
Photo of plane © Tony Smith, licensed under CC BY 2.0 and adapted from the original: www.flickr.com/photos/pc_plod...
Photo of road © N i c o l a, licensed under CC BY 2.0 and adapted from the original: www.flickr.com/photos/1521681...
Photo of mountain © valcker, licensed under CC BY 2.0 and adapted from the original: www.flickr.com/photos/valcker...
Speech bubbles and European Flag: www.pixabay.com
Subscribe to our channel for more: goo.gl/xs5AMi

Пікірлер: 61
@0106946194
@0106946194 8 жыл бұрын
The music sound is higher than the speaking sound!
@britishcouncil
@britishcouncil 8 жыл бұрын
+mohamed seif, thank you for letting us know. We'll keep it in mind for any future videos we produce and do this better.
@Onlytruthforever
@Onlytruthforever 6 жыл бұрын
no one speaking ah u mean that man just a mute background for their music trying to decrease it's boring
@mandarinenzeittv860
@mandarinenzeittv860 6 жыл бұрын
This is probably my favourite video out of this series. The funnel analogy is spot-on!
@Ms.Francis
@Ms.Francis 7 жыл бұрын
True! there are different levels of fluency, we tend to think that fluency is near perfection, it´s not. This will allow people to feel more confident about their growth if they see fluency in stages. Good job!!
@franny7412
@franny7412 4 жыл бұрын
You commented on 'Why these uk school kids love learning languages'
@fatimaallawati947
@fatimaallawati947 Ай бұрын
This music is SUPER nostalgic!!!
@Bruno-hd9qo
@Bruno-hd9qo 8 жыл бұрын
the funnel thing is a fact...
@hopelessly.lavenderly
@hopelessly.lavenderly 5 жыл бұрын
I love the funnel comparison! It's very true, but I never thought about it that way.
@maxpommer7292
@maxpommer7292 2 жыл бұрын
I began learning and speaking English in British Columbia, where English was the admimnistrative language. I grew accustomed to where I used to live, so when my parents decided to move back to Europe where they came from, I was in a state of shock and heartbroken. My parents settled in Germany, so I had to learn German to be able to attend school, and as my mother had relatives in the Netherlands, I decided to learn Dutch as well. At school, English was taught as a second language, so I could expand my knowledge of that language, but before that, I practically had to learn German from scrap. Somy brother and I took private lessons in German to at least get some basic knowledgec in it . As for Dutch, my mother washelpful whenever I had any questions concerningthe meanings where I wasn't sure after reading, although Irecognized words similar to the German or / and the English ones, later on finding that there were quite afew French loanwords as well, and some words from other origins, Some came from an almost ancient historic past, while others can be traced back to the time of when Europe colonised lands in oversea locations. However, my father, being from a German background, told me at least once that I should concentrate on the German language first. I remember, though, that when we drove to my mother's father every 2nd or 3rd weekend when he was still alive, I also met some aunts and uncles and cousins of mine, and I was eager to communicate with them in their language should I find the necessity to do so., and to understand what was goin on when i watched television. Although the part of Germany I live in is not too far from the Netherlands, no puböic schooI in the town I reside in offered Dutch language courses, but I do believe that leaning Dutch alsov helped me to understand German better than if I had not done so. And of course, that also led to a better understanding of certain aspects of English as well. Sadly enough, I didn't really meet anyone who gave me advice or counseling on linguistic topics or recommendations. I guess I'll stay rather useless now that the pandemic crisis has set in and everyone is so busy setting up further restrictions, and health care in certain cases seems to be making drawbacks as well. I never managed to return back to where I was born, and I doubt I ever will. Too many issues with what can also affect my health state in the long run, and a feeling of recognition despite the efforts I at least tried to make. I do get some support, but... I get the impression it is not like what could have been. I wonder if I want too much sometimes, and if it's roo late for any meaningful changes I might feel better with - Including to share with worthwhile people.
@stevetoucan9920
@stevetoucan9920 4 жыл бұрын
Fluency for me is when you can dream in another language and understand it
@HoneybatzRa
@HoneybatzRa 4 жыл бұрын
Funny but true. This is something I have done on many occasions whilst learning French. It is even more disconcerting when I start to join in the convesations!
@tentandoumcover
@tentandoumcover Жыл бұрын
I dreamed in English 3 to 4 times, but I am far away from being fluent
@jalilahjzainal4970
@jalilahjzainal4970 8 жыл бұрын
Very good videos in studying the languages.
@tsundoku5733
@tsundoku5733 7 жыл бұрын
This video equates "fluency" with "proficiency". The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is a framework for describing levels of proficiency, not fluency. You can be fluent at level A1 (the lowest level), even though it is a low level from the point of view of proficiency. (In other words, at level A1, the range of things you can express and understand is limited, regardless of how fluent you can express these things.) The term "fluency" is better taught of as related to the degree of automaticity in language use. Both proficiency and fluency require practice, but that does not imply they refer to the same thing.
@earlem9771
@earlem9771 6 жыл бұрын
Christophe S - I disagree. If you are speaking below the typical level of speaking for your age, you aren't fluent. A1 fluency is good if you are a child.
@JenKumar
@JenKumar 4 жыл бұрын
@@earlem9771 Not necesarily. I know many people who are A1 level and are adults. That is not a fair analogy. That analogy is demotivating to adults trying to learn a second or other language.
@JenKumar
@JenKumar 4 жыл бұрын
I agree with your feedback. I was looking for a comprehensive definition of fluency. Wouldn't fluency also incorporate how well others can understand us? Language goes two ways, not one! :)
@earlem9771
@earlem9771 4 жыл бұрын
@@JenKumar I believe that A1 is something to be proud of, but lets not lower the bar and call it fluent for the sake of people's feelings.
@JenKumar
@JenKumar 4 жыл бұрын
@@earlem9771 I'd agree there is a long way to go to gain complete fluency from A1. But, there are some aspects of fluency that are worth noting even in A1. And, one thing the CEFR or any assessment fails at is a holistic fluency. Each learner advances in various aspects of a language at different speeds. Some may be a C2 in reading and understand all they read, even something very complex, however, when speaking, the words just don't come, or they can't have a conversation with a person. I have met such people! They do not use the spoken element of a second language as frequently as they use reading or writing. Then, I know others who are very proficient at speaking, they even have decent grammar, but have a hard time sitting down to write a sentence (in English or other languages).
@aquarius4953
@aquarius4953 3 жыл бұрын
Fleuve (river) affluent , flow , confluent (confluence) and so your speech is fluent when it flows effortlessly .
@aymnslah7096
@aymnslah7096 Жыл бұрын
Thank you
@MarkBH70
@MarkBH70 6 жыл бұрын
I speak Portuguese fluently. I got a minor but couldn't speak well and barely understood when others spoke. I got onto Skype with Brazilians for only about two years. I'm fluent. I also recommend Anki flashcards. I've used them about nine months now. For beginner's practice I recommend FSI's (Foreign Service Institute) website. I also recommend getting a good book with not too much grammar. It is a thrill to understand a foreign language!! To know you've accomplished it, and to understand a different code. I recommend moving slowly and finding interesting content. Also, consistency.
@StomachAcid
@StomachAcid 3 жыл бұрын
I'm learning Portuguese as a second language! :D It's really fun.
@MarkBH70
@MarkBH70 3 жыл бұрын
@@StomachAcid Congratulations! I enjoy it. It is different from Spanish, even with the connections. It's great to know I can go to foreign countries and communicate with natives, but not only in English. Best wishes!
@StomachAcid
@StomachAcid 3 жыл бұрын
@@MarkBH70 You too! I've been learning it for about a year now, and I think I'm actually getting sort of good at it! :D
@MarkBH70
@MarkBH70 3 жыл бұрын
@@StomachAcid Keep it up! :)
@user-ws2ql9jq2x
@user-ws2ql9jq2x 3 жыл бұрын
Personally speaking, I can say that the fluency is when you are able to speak a different language as though you're speaking your mother tongue. Actually, my dad tends to prioritise the ability to think in another language. You see - different opinions.
@13Sammy
@13Sammy 4 жыл бұрын
I'm already fluent in English which was my second language and people have already assumed that it would be my first language... that made me realise that my English is fluently and it gave me confidence too... My Chinese however is still not the best but I am getting there one day... also I just began with Spanish... and my tip for getting fluently quicker is to stop translating in your head... build up the sentence in the target language and don't translate... it's harder at first but even the grammar will stick with you quicker... also songs are a good help with pronouncing words correctly...
@cristiansilva3715
@cristiansilva3715 3 жыл бұрын
How is your spanish going?
@ayahamdalla2351
@ayahamdalla2351 8 жыл бұрын
i had a target for 4 years which is speak fluently.My accent became perfect but listening & speaking is terrible😂😂
@StomachAcid
@StomachAcid 3 жыл бұрын
With me, my accent and speaking is terrible, but my listening and reading is pretty good.
@d.lawrence5670
@d.lawrence5670 4 жыл бұрын
I work with fellow Americans, born and raised here. And I can tell you that many, many Americans aren't even "fluent" in their own damn language.
@derpderp9281
@derpderp9281 3 жыл бұрын
Nice! In my view you are fluent when you can communicate your ideas in that language - it can be in the most simple and common sentences, but if you can communicate some basic ideas I think that's already great progress! I lost too much time trying to perfect the language I'm learning, and that stopped me from doing what I wanted in the beginning - really using it with other native speakers - once you let go of your ego and just go for it things become much easier
@britishcouncil
@britishcouncil 3 жыл бұрын
Interesting! Thanks for sharing your thoughts :)
@Lacuto67
@Lacuto67 8 жыл бұрын
A good analogy comparing language learning and effort as a cup, with each level/effort compared to increasing volume. Never though of it like that before.
@cornerstoneenglishinstitut3058
@cornerstoneenglishinstitut3058 4 жыл бұрын
regards from cornerstone.
@totaelzain5768
@totaelzain5768 Жыл бұрын
If there is a practice group, please let me know
@franciscomaurodesousa1443
@franciscomaurodesousa1443 6 жыл бұрын
Very interesting
@suadali2097
@suadali2097 8 жыл бұрын
it is an amazing vides
@luisgalavizgalindo8507
@luisgalavizgalindo8507 7 жыл бұрын
do you know qhere can I find this test to jnow how level I am?
@aaaaeeeiiiooo
@aaaaeeeiiiooo 8 жыл бұрын
I learned English by myself. I've been studying English since I was 12, now I'am 23. But I can't say I'm fluently. But I really want to. When I talk in English I can talk with some vocabulary problems. But I am able to speak Good. I don't what to do to be better. Thank you so much :)
@newagehero9605
@newagehero9605 6 жыл бұрын
Rayze Medeiros You are fluent
@salal2007
@salal2007 6 жыл бұрын
good for you to learn on your own!! English is my second language and I love it -- sometimes more than my native language!
@jackhutchinson1457
@jackhutchinson1457 5 жыл бұрын
Here are a few corrections for you to improve on (not hate, just helping). It’s more natural to say: ‘I can’t say I’m fluent’ rather that saying: ‘I can’t say I’m fluently’ ‘I am able to speak well’ sounds better that ‘I am able to speak good’
@himanshuattri3318
@himanshuattri3318 6 жыл бұрын
Nice
@dannysze8183
@dannysze8183 3 жыл бұрын
such a cute guy🥰🥰🥰🥰my type.😘
@mariconsciencia139
@mariconsciencia139 6 жыл бұрын
I have a intermediate fluency, i suppose
@biblesimplied2321
@biblesimplied2321 3 жыл бұрын
Did he answer the question?
@football-crazymate3606
@football-crazymate3606 6 жыл бұрын
Make friends and think about your friends
@hirencorn2313
@hirencorn2313 3 жыл бұрын
If you speak a language since you're 3, are you a native ?
@user-jy5tf2oo2v
@user-jy5tf2oo2v 5 жыл бұрын
Helen.K
@Widdekuu91
@Widdekuu91 7 жыл бұрын
To me, it's when your mind doesn't have to stop and switch to the other language, but it happens automatically, like right now, for me, in English. (I'm from the Netherlands) In German, I can express myself a little less perfect, because there's still lots of words I'm not familiar with, but I'm able to have plain conversations, invite people over for dinner, tell them about my work, my hobbies, etcetera. But as soon as a bankaccount needs to be opened or I want to hire a bicycle...it's not going to be as easy. That's why I tell people I speak German, but I'm not fluent yet. I'm on about 67 percent of what I'd want. English hit the 100% a long time ago, except for a few tiny grammar-mistakes.
@pencilonpaper1026
@pencilonpaper1026 6 жыл бұрын
We can hire bikes now... Didn't know they were sentient.
@rudoletweensomane7720
@rudoletweensomane7720 2 ай бұрын
Thank you
Four ways to get better at languages
2:24
British Council
Рет қаралды 238 М.
How to stay motivated when learning a language
2:14
British Council
Рет қаралды 266 М.
I CAN’T BELIEVE I LOST 😱
00:46
Topper Guild
Рет қаралды 118 МЛН
Дарю Самокат Скейтеру !
00:42
Vlad Samokatchik
Рет қаралды 7 МЛН
Cat Corn?! 🙀 #cat #cute #catlover
00:54
Stocat
Рет қаралды 15 МЛН
Why these multilingual school kids want to learn more languages
3:37
British Council
Рет қаралды 228 М.
German: an über-cool language
2:20
British Council
Рет қаралды 28 М.
Spanish: a backpacker's dream, and easy to learn
2:22
British Council
Рет қаралды 20 М.
What languages do people in the UK speak?
2:15
British Council
Рет қаралды 25 М.
How is online learning changing higher education?
2:19
British Council
Рет қаралды 42 М.
Language Trends England 2023
3:11
British Council
Рет қаралды 5 М.
Three surprising benefits of learning a new language
1:24
British Council
Рет қаралды 106 М.
History of the English Language (1943)
14:26
British Council
Рет қаралды 359 М.
Mandarin Chinese: the most spoken language in the world
2:13
British Council
Рет қаралды 31 М.
French: romantic, global, and pretty similar to English
2:21
British Council
Рет қаралды 23 М.
I CAN’T BELIEVE I LOST 😱
00:46
Topper Guild
Рет қаралды 118 МЛН