Introduction

Speaking English fluently is one thing, but speaking it correctly is another!
Many learners struggle with grammar when they talk, overthinking every sentence and worrying about mistakes.
But here's the truth: grammar should support your conversations, not stop them!
If you’ve ever wondered how to use correct grammar in speaking English, the key is to focus on practical, real-life application instead of memorizing endless rules.
Let’s break it down with simple, effective strategies that will help you speak English correctly and confidently every day!

1. Build Confidence First, Then Focus on Grammar

Before worrying too much about grammar, focus on gaining confidence in speaking in English first. If you’re constantly afraid of making mistakes, you won’t practice enough to improve.

Start by speaking freely, even if it’s not perfect. Once you feel more comfortable, then you can refine your grammar. It’s easier to fix small mistakes than to fix silence!

Common grammar struggles include:

• Forgetting to match subjects and verbs correctly (ex: She go to school → She goes to school)

• Inconsistent verb tenses in stories (ex: While I waited for the bus, I see a rainbow. → While I waited for the bus, I saw a rainbow.)

• Using the wrong form of a word (ex: beauty vs. beautiful; I am boring. → I am bored.)

2. Focus on Key Grammar Rules for Daily Conversation

Some grammar rules are more important than others when it comes to everyday speaking. Focus on mastering these first:

• Verb tenses (past, present, and future)

• Subject-verb agreement (She doesn’t, not She don’t)

• Using the right word forms (I’m interesting in going to Vietnam → I’m interested in going to Vietnam)

• Verbs that need direct objects (You played well the piano. → You played the piano well.).

When you master these basics, you’ll already sound more natural and accurate in conversations!

3. Create Personal Examples to Reinforce Grammar

Grammar sticks better when it’s meaningful to you. Instead of memorizing sentences you found online, create your own examples:

• Record yourself telling a short story and check your verb tenses. If the story is in the past, did you use past tense verbs?

• Write a few sentences about your daily routine, focusing on subject-verb agreement.

• Use new grammar structures in real conversations with friends or language partners.

4. Use Writing to Strengthen Your Spoken Grammar

Writing forces you to slow down and think about your grammar more carefully. The more you write, the more accurate your spoken English will become!

• Keep a journal and write a few sentences in it every day.

• Write out responses to common conversation topics before saying them out loud.

• Text in English with friends or language partners.

Writing reinforces correct grammar, making it easier to apply when speaking.

5. Surround Yourself with Good Grammar

The more you see and hear correct grammar, the more naturally you’ll use it. Find resources that match your level:

• Podcasts and interviews to hear natural speech

• Books and articles to reinforce grammar structures

Try repeating sentences out loud after hearing them. This helps you absorb the patterns naturally!

6. Apply What You Learn—Don't Just Scroll!

Many learners watch grammar videos but never practice. Don’t fall into this trap!

• After learning a new grammar rule, use it in a sentence right away.

• Instead of just watching videos, pause and repeat examples out loud.

Practice is what makes grammar stick, so use what you learn!

7. Track Your Progress with Speaking & Writing

How do you know if you’re improving? Keep track of your progress!

• Record yourself speaking once a week and listen for improvements at the end of the month.

• Keep a journal to see how your sentences improve over time.

• Ask for feedback from teachers or language partners.

Tracking progress will keep you motivated and focused on improvement!

Final Thoughts

Grammar doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The key to how to use correct grammar in speaking English is to speak first, refine later. Focus on confidence, key grammar rules, meaningful practice, and consistent exposure to good grammar.

The more you practice, the more natural it will become! Keep speaking, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Because every mistake is a step toward improvement!

If you’d like the opportunity to practice with others and receive feedback on your spoken English, consider joining my book club for intermediate English learners! You can learn more about it here. Registration for new members will begin in April!