Common questions about learning English

Can learning a second language enhance one’s general intellectual capacity and comprehension skills?

There is evidence to suggest that learning a second language can enhance one’s general intellectual capacity and comprehension skills. Research has shown that bilingualism and multilingualism can have a number of cognitive benefits, including improved problem-solving and decision-making skills, enhanced creativity, and better memory and attention to detail.

One reason for these cognitive benefits may be that learning a second language requires the brain to constantly switch between languages and adapt to new grammatical rules and vocabulary. This mental flexibility and adaptability has been found to have a positive effect on other cognitive skills.

In addition, learning a second language can also improve reading and comprehension skills, as it requires the reader to analyze and interpret texts in a different language. This can help improve overall reading comprehension and critical thinking skills.

Overall, learning a second language can be a challenging and rewarding experience that can have a number of cognitive and educational benefits.

How can reading widely diverse books improve one’s writing skills?

Reading widely diverse books can improve your writing skills in a number of ways:

Exposure to different writing styles: Reading books written by a variety of authors can expose you to different writing styles and techniques, which can help you develop your own style and voice.
Improved vocabulary: Reading widely diverse books can expose you to new words and phrases, which can help you expand your vocabulary and use more descriptive language in your writing.
Increased understanding of different perspectives: Reading books from different time periods, cultures, and perspectives can help you understand and appreciate different viewpoints and experiences, which can enrich your writing and make it more empathetic and understanding.
Improved reading comprehension: Reading diverse books can help you improve your overall reading comprehension skills, which can in turn help you better understand and analyze texts when you are writing.
Increased creativity: Reading diverse books can help stimulate your creativity and inspire new ideas for your own writing.

Can you speak a language well if you don’t know how to read it’s alphabet or written language at all? Can you speak a language well if you only have listening comprehension and reading ability, but no spoken proficiency?

yes of course – for most of history most of the speakers of a language were illiterate. Not saying it’s ideal but it’s possible.

What amusing phrases commonly used in British English may confuse non-native speakers?

Some common British phrases that may confuse non-native speakers include:

“Bob’s your uncle” – This phrase is used to indicate that something is easy or straightforward. For example, “Just follow these instructions and Bob’s your uncle, the cake will be baked.”
“Fancy a cuppa?” – This is a way of asking someone if they would like a cup of tea.
“Knickers in a twist” – This phrase is used to describe someone who is agitated or flustered.
“Sod’s law” – This phrase is used to describe an ironic or coincidental turn of events, similar to the American phrase “Murphy’s law.”
“Taking the mickey” – This phrase means to tease or mock someone, similar to the American phrase “pulling someone’s leg.”
“Silly sausage” – This is a playful and affectionate way to refer to someone acting in a silly or foolish way.
“Cheers” – This can be used as a general expression of gratitude, as well as a way of toasting someone.
“Mind the gap” – This phrase is often heard on the London Underground and is a warning for passengers to be careful when getting on or off the train, as there may be a gap between the train and the platform.
“It’s not my cup of tea” – This phrase means that someone doesn’t like or enjoy something.
“I’ll be mother” – This phrase is used when someone offers to pour the tea for others during a meal or gathering.
“Bog standard” – This phrase is used to describe something that is basic or standard, similar to the American phrase “plain vanilla.”
“Selling like hotcakes” – This phrase means that something is selling very well, quickly or in large quantity.
“Barmy” – This means crazy, eccentric or mad, often in a playful way.
“Blimey” – A mild exclamation of surprise
“Pillock” – An idiomatic term used to refer to a silly or annoying person
“On the lash” – Going out to drink, to party
“Banger” – A great thing or person.

To what level can I learn English online?

As long as you want – especially if you find a good teacher. C2 is possible with the right commitment.

What is the present perfect tense of the verb “to get”?

The present perfect tense of the verb “to get” is “have gotten” (US) or “have got” (UK) It is used to describe an action that was completed in the past but that has relevance or consequences in the present. Here is an example sentence using the present perfect tense of “to get”:

“I have got(ten) a lot of practice using the present perfect tense recently.”

Does it matter when you learn a foreign language?

“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.”
chinese proverb

It is generally thought that it is easier to learn a new language at a younger age, as the brain is more receptive to learning new languages during childhood and adolescence. This is because the brain is more plastic and adaptable at a younger age, which makes it easier for children to acquire new language skills. Children also tend to be more immersed in the language, as they spend more time with native speakers and are exposed to the language on a daily basis.

However, it is never too late to learn a new language. While it may be more challenging to learn a new language as an adult, it is still possible to achieve fluency with sufficient time, effort, and immersion in the language. Many adults are able to learn a new language and become proficient speakers, even if they did not start learning until later in life.

How does language learning play a role in successful immigrant assimilation?

Learning the language of the country you are immigrating to can be a key factor in successful assimilation. It can help you communicate more effectively with the people around you and navigate daily life in your new country. It can also open up job and education opportunities and allow you to fully participate in the cultural and social life of your new community. In many cases, learning the language of your new country is also a requirement for obtaining citizenship.

In addition to the practical benefits of language learning, it can also help you feel more connected to your new community and make the process of adjusting to a new country easier. It can be a challenging process to adapt to a new culture, but learning the language can be a way to feel more at home and understand the people and customs around you.

What are some tips for writing an exciting and grammatically correct essay?

Choose a topic that you are interested in and that you have a strong opinion about. This will make it easier for you to write an engaging essay.
Start with an outline. This will help you organize your thoughts and ideas and ensure that your essay has a clear structure.
Use clear and concise language. Avoid using unnecessary words or phrases and focus on expressing your ideas clearly and directly.
Use grammar and punctuation correctly. Pay attention to verb tenses, subject-verb agreement, and the use of commas and other punctuation marks.
Use strong, active verbs. These will help make your writing more vivid and engaging.
Use transitional words and phrases to help connect your ideas and create a smooth, logical flow.
Edit and proofread your essay carefully. Make sure that your essay is free of spelling and grammar errors, and that your ideas are presented clearly and logically.
Vary your sentence structure. Mixing up the length and structure of your sentences will help keep your reader interested and engaged.
Use examples and evidence to support your ideas. This will make your essay more persuasive and believable.

How much time does it take to learn another language by using only your native language as a medium of instruction?

It is generally easier to learn a new language when the instruction is in that language, as you are able to immerse yourself in the language and learn through context and real-life situations. However, it is possible to learn a new language using only your native language as a medium of instruction. It may take longer to learn the new language this way, as you will not have the same level of immersion and may need to rely more on translation. The amount of time it takes to learn a new language can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, such as your prior language learning experience, your natural aptitude for language learning, how much time you are able to devote to study, and the difficulty of the language you are learning.

Why do we say that the language spoken in England is British English? Isn’t English simply English?

Not at all, there’s many variations and dialects of English.

American, Australian, British, Indian, Singaporean, Scots each with their own linguistic features.

I’m sure there’s others too that I’ve forgotten.

There’s even a case to be made for a “European English”

How can somebody speak English as a second language fluently? I was born and raised in Asia.

Immerse yourself in the language. Don’t worry too much about grammar. Use the language as much as possible and in as many ways as possible. Find a speaking partner, write online, listen to podcasts, go to international events and speak English there. A teacher could help point you in the right direction but it comes down to how much you use the language on a regular basis. Good luck!