Why many Latinos understand English… but can't speak it (and how to fix it)

Aric
Dec 4, 2025
3 min read

Speaking English isn't just about knowing vocabulary or recognizing words when someone else says them. If it were that simple, millions of Latinos in the United States would already be bilingual. The reality is that many people understand quite a bit of English… but freeze up when they try to speak it . Why does this happen? Here we explain the most common reasons and, more importantly, how to overcome them so you too can start speaking with confidence.

⭐ 1. Because we learned “school English”, not real English

In many Latin American countries, English classes focus on memorizing rules, taking exams, and completing exercises. The result? People who can read or understand, but haven't practiced a single real conversation .

How to fix it:

Expose yourself to real English: videos, short conversations, everyday dialogues.
Practice complete sentences, not vocabulary lists.
Speak even if you make mistakes—fluency only comes with real practice.

⭐ 2. Fear of making mistakes or “shame” about speaking

This is probably the biggest obstacle. Many Latinos think:

"What if I mispronounce it?" "What if they don't understand me?" "What if they laugh?"

But here's the truth: everyone who learns a second language makes mistakes thousands of times first . Nobody is born speaking perfectly.

How to fix it:

Change your mindset: making mistakes is not only normal… it's necessary.
Practice with a teacher or a group where you feel safe.
Start with short sentences and gradually increase the difficulty.

⭐ 3. Not having enough “output” practice

You can listen to English for years and still not be able to speak it if you don't actively practice. The brain needs to use the language, not just receive it.

It's like watching videos of people playing guitar: you can understand how it works, but it doesn't mean you can play it.

How to fix it:

Dedicate 10 minutes a day to speaking out loud (yes, even if you are alone).
Repeat phrases after listening to a video (“shadowing”).
Practice simple conversations: ordering food, introducing yourself, greeting others, etc.

⭐ 4. Translate everything in your head

Many Latinos try to speak English while thinking in Spanish first. This makes response time slow and makes you feel insecure.

How to fix it:

Learn complete expressions, not word by word.
Practice with real situations: “Hi, I'd like a coffee.” “I'm here for my appointment.”
Use content that has ready-to-use phrases.

⭐ 5. Pronunciation problems (but there's a solution)

It's not that you don't know English. It's that your brain isn't used to certain English sounds, like the TH sound, the American R sound, or short vowels.

How to fix it:

Focus on 4–5 key sounds, not all at once.
Listen and repeat short words.
Record yourself speaking and compare it to the original sound.
Find a teacher who can give you specific corrections (this greatly accelerates progress).

⭐ 6. Lack of confidence: not of ability

Many Latinos believe they can't speak English because they're "not good at languages" or "too old." But this is false.

Most people can speak English… they just lack structure, guidance, and real practice.

How to fix it:

Study with a clear and suitable plan for adults.
Measure your progress (every week, not every day).
Celebrate the small steps: they count too!

💬 In summary…

If you understand English but still find it difficult to speak, it doesn't mean you "can't." It means your brain needs active practice, confidence, and a safe space to make mistakes and learn .

When you combine these elements, fluidity comes faster than you imagine.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. “Why do I freeze up when speaking English in person?”

Because your brain tries to translate and respond at the same time. Solution: practice automatic phrases, shadowing , and simulated conversations.

2. “Why do I know vocabulary but not how to form sentences?”

Because you learned individual words, not structures. Solution: Use chunks , repeat complete phrases, and practice short dialogues.

3. “Do I need a perfect accent to speak well?”

No. You just need to be clear. Solution: work on 4 key sounds: TH, short vowels, American R, and -ed.

4. “What do I do if they speak very fast and I don’t understand?”

Your ear isn't used to real English. Solution: English subtitles, slow down the playback speed, repeat common phrases, and ask for repetition.

5. “How long does it take to speak more confidently?”

With real practice and proper guidance: 8–12 weeks . Accelerate: speak daily, repeat useful phrases, receive corrections, and stop translating.