The article has been automatically translated into English by Google Translate from Russian and has not been edited.

Communication in English: how to maintain a conversation without cliché

'24.09.2021'

Source: makeitinny.com

Remember the first time you spoke English in a real authentic setting. Nervous? How did you start the conversation? Yes, we also remember our first awkward small talk with native speakers (surprisingly, he was not the last). If you are tired of squeezing the standard “uh, good weather here at you”, then we can offer you something better: 5 technician who will help to overcome awkwardness, start a lively conversation and build communication in English without jagged cliches.

Photo: Shutterstock

Even if you do not suffer from shyness and easily communicate with strangers, it can be difficult at first to speak in a foreign language with foreigners - you feel limited to a certain list of phrases and do not know how to naturally continue the conversation. In addition, let us tell you a secret, even native speakers sometimes get tired of the standard questions "what is the name, where, where do you work." But communication should be enjoyable, right? Therefore, we do not suggest that you memorize new phrases. Instead, let's better try to maintain a natural conversation - we are not in class at school, writes maketinny.com.

1. What do you like

This is a simple and safe technique for everyone, because we all have our favorite movies / countries / food and so on. In addition, when answering the question "Which of the TV series is your favorite?", People are likely to delve into the topic, and the dialogue will start by itself. Continue to keep the conversation going with the follow-up questions i.e. clarifying questions, and do not forget to answer the interlocutor yourself. The more unusual your first question is, the more interesting it will be. Of course, when meeting new people, it's best to avoid controversial topics, but don't be afraid to go beyond your hobby: for example, ask the other person about his favorite city or topping for waffles.

On the subject: Personal experience: where to start learning English in emigration

2. What would you do if ...

"What would you do if ..." is a fun game that is great for chatting at parties. What would you do if tomorrow you had to leave the country for 10 years? What would you do if you could only travel in a time machine to one moment in the past or in the future? From these two questions, you can already build a non-trivial conversation! By the way, if fantasy fails you, there is a good brokerwhich gives out similar random questions with answer choices - just open it on your smartphone and start having fun.

3. What would you choose

"Would you rather?" - this technique is similar to No. 2, but here the interlocutor will have to choose from two options offered to you, for example, "What would you choose: drink a glass of ketchup or a glass of mayonnaise?" Again, you can give free rein to your imagination, download the application with the game or go to this broker... Note: This game is also great for informal communication at parties, but not all questions may be suitable for conversations with new acquaintances. "Which would you choose: to go topless all the time or without pants?" - not everyone can appreciate such humor at the first meeting.

4. Play word associations

“What do you think of when you hear the word ...” - What do you think of when you hear the word ...? Yes, it may seem like this technique is more suitable for conversations in a psychologist's office, but at parties as a fun way to dilute the dialogue, it will also work. Of course, you shouldn't start a conversation with this game, especially with new people, but why not offer to play it later.

On the subject: How I taught English in movies and TV shows: 17 films by language levels. VIDEO

5. Tell a joke

Everyone loves people with a good sense of humor! However, when dealing with strangers, you should avoid topics such as religion, sex or politics, and the same goes for jokes. So choose neutral topics or play on words, you might even keep a couple of universal jokes ready - after all, comedians write their jokes!

Bonus: drink

Of course, this is us as a joke. But in every joke there is some truth, but many have heard: "I speak English / French / Italian better when I drink!" Perhaps it's not “better”, but “more” - it's not for nothing that alcohol is called “social lubricant”, since a small amount of it can really help to feel more relaxed and at ease in a conversation. The main thing is not to rely only on this "technique".

Whichever option you choose, just start using it! And who knows, maybe you will not only improve your English skills, but also make new friends.

Follow success stories, tips, and more by subscribing to Woman.ForumDaily on Facebook, and don't miss the main thing in our mailing list

WP2Social Auto Publish Powered By: XYZScripts.com