subject: Learn Spanish Fast-Ten Tips [print this page] Like a lot of people who are trying to learn another language,you wouldn't wish to come across as clumsy.
There is a natural curve to learning a language (even your own) which involves errors,however you most likeley don't want to make errors that can be avoided which could show you up.
So here listed below are 10 tips with common errors that english speakers frequently make when learning spanish.
These may not be the most common mistakes but should be avoided in order to progress.
1.The usage of pronouns is not always needed:most English sentences require a subject.Not always the case in Spanish.When a sentence is spoken and made sense of,usually the subject matter can be left out.The pronoun can be used but usually can sound awkward and be the point of unnecessary focus.
2.Words that look similar do not always mean the same.These are called cognates.
Spanish and english share a latin heritage in their words, and as a result quite often have the same meaning.
It would be wise to observe the false and partial cognates in order to except them.
e.g.violador usually is a rapist,not just a person who has committed a minor motoring offence.
3.Following the English sentence order is good practice,with exception for putting some adjectives after nouns that they modify and be understood.Be aware as you learn how often the subject is put after the verb.Learn to change the order of words in a sentence,as this can enhance your grip of the language.Be aware that by placing a preposition at the end of a sentence,unlike in English, should be avoided in Spanish.
4.Failing to use prepositions in proper context.It pays to learn the point of a preposition rather than just the translation.
For example, "i'm thinking about you"=pienso acerca de ti, as opposed to pienso en ti.
5.When learning Spanish most people will struggle knowing when to use articles i.e(un,una,el,los,las):
If used in the wrong way you would come across as being clumsy with the language.
6.Idiom translation:Whereby some phrases cannot be translated literally or exactly. e.g.bajo control means "under control,many others do not.
e.g. en el acto=on the spot.Word for word and you get en el sitio and "in the act,both of which are wrong.
7.In Spanish the subjunctive mood cannot be avoided if you want to more than just ask questions or state a fact.
8.Imitation is not to deride a native.Pronunciation should be practised as much as possible.
9.As with most languages if the text book is correct, not even the most learned of people always speak with regard to the rules.
Sticking rigidly to the rulebook will lack a certain feel and be almost insincere at times.
Try to express(when comfortable)the Spanish that you hear in real life.
10.Do not be afraid to get things wrong,as this is all part of the process.A Spanish speaker will applaude your attempts to converse in their native tounge.
