5 Tips to Help You Learn Spanish Vocabulary and Pronunciation
Saturday, June 2nd, 2007 Subscribe To Our Feed
If you have ever attempted to learn a foreign language, you know that mistakes are just a part of the educational process. Even though you somehow feel inadequate when you start to learn Spanish vocabulary and pronunciation, you need to work through the common mistakes that most English speakers make with this language.
Obviously, there are certain recognizable issues with Spanish vocabulary that seems to form a pattern with English to Spanish translation. These are important vocabulary or pronunciation issues that need to be overcome if you plan to advance beyond a novice level speaker.
Here are 5 tips for overcoming these common Spanish language faux pas:
1. Spanish doesn’t always follow English sentence structure
In some cases, you can follow English sentence structure and you will still be understood. Consider it similar to a person who speaks broken English – the words are generally there but perhaps not in the right order. A major difference with Spanish is that there are many times that the subject is placed after the verb. You have won half the battle just by being aware of these differences and paying particular attention when Spanish is spoken.
2. Don’t assume that Spanish words that appear similar to English words have the same meaning
Both Spanish and English are derived from the same Latin roots. This makes many words in both languages very similar, and on many occasions they have the same meaning. But there are a significant number of times when the words appear almost identical, but with radically different meanings. Take careful note during your studies to distinguish those that have a different interpretation.
3. Learn when to use articles (un, una, el, la, los, las)
This is a similar problem with individuals learning English (a, an, the). It’s the same for English speakers trying to learn Spanish. When you use articles improperly you are signaling that you are a beginner and still struggling with the language.
4. Pay particular to pronunciation
This can be challenging for English speakers, but it is worth practicing your Spanish “r’s”. This requires a trill almost like a purring cat. Also, pronounce the “b” and “v” the same - there is no difference in Spanish.
5. And lastly, don’t be afraid to make mistakes
Mistakes just come with the learning process, they are inevitable. Even though you make mistakes as you learn Spanish vocabulary and pronunciation, most native speakers will appreciate your efforts and even help you correct your mistakes. Just take it all in stride and above all, have fun with your new language skills.
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