Talking like a native requires more than merely fixing your accent or expanding your vocabulary. If you’ve already done work with a language teaching software on both and still find yourself unable to pass off as a local, then it’s clear you’re missing the rest of the language ensemble.
- Understanding local dialects. In many countries, specific areas will have their own way of using the language. Being aware of the differences between local dialects can help you understand people better.
- Addressing generation gaps. Language addresses generation gaps. The words a local will use when talking to senior citizens for instance, will tend to differ with the ones they employ when chatting with children. Same goes when you’re interacting with teenagers and authority figures. This is the type of thing you pick up from observation and experience.
- Learning the gestures. Some languages rely more heavily on gestures than others. Picking up on these gestures and being able to use them should help when interacting with locals in a more complete capacity.
- Picking up slang. Colloquial usage of the language tend to be very important in casual conversations, as it helps give it color and vibrancy. Fact is, there’s little chance you can pick up such informal parlance unless you’ve spent time among locals.