subject: Top Strategies For Native Chinese Speakers Using American Idiomatic Expressions [print this page] Many of my native Chinese speaking clients have asked me how they can best use idioms and everyday phrases in their conversation. The correct use of idioms will help you sound more like a native speaker. How is this best accomplished? When idioms come up in conversation and you dont understand, be sure to write them down. You can ask an American who you know about the meaning or look them up so youre not out of the loop!!
Try to familiarize yourself with these expressions and look for them everywhere. Newspapers like the Wall Street Journal and business sections of the daily newspapers are full of these idioms. Eventually, when they come up in conversation, youll be soon prepared to respond confidently, instead of becoming silent while thinking to yourself, What are they talking about now?
How often have you heard these common expressions, they pulled the plug, sales went through the roof, and it slipped my mind? Dont be shocked, Americans constantly use these phrases.
Clients often ask how often they should practice using these colorful expressions. It is important to practice using these expressions daily for at least 30 minutes. There are several reference books available that have idioms and everyday expressions. Its best to have several short practice sessions rather than one long session.
The use of idioms will add color and excitement to your language and help you develop a deeper meaning of the English language. Discover all this and more in the new guide, 7 Weeks to a Better American Accent for Native Mandarin Speakers Volume 1. This guide and MP3 downloadable language series will have you speaking American English with more confidence. Be sure to visit the website for details on the availability of this new important guide.
