Listening Tip for Japanese ESL Learners: Train Your Ears for “Connected Speech”
Many Japanese learners say: “I can read English, but I can’t understand it when people speak fast!”
One big reason is connected speech—the way native speakers link words together in real conversations.
For example:
“I’m going to eat it.” sounds like → “I’m gonna eat it.”
“Did you eat yet?” sounds like → “Didja eat yet?”
These changes happen naturally and quickly in spoken English, and they’re not always taught in textbooks.
Here’s how to train your ears:
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Choose a short video (1–2 minutes) with subtitles—like a YouTube clip or scene from a drama.
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Listen once without reading. Just try to catch the general idea.
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Listen again, this time with subtitles. Pause and repeat phrases. Notice how words are linked or dropped.
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Repeat out loud (shadowing). Copy the speaker’s rhythm and speed. This helps your ears and mouth work together.
Do this every day for just 5–10 minutes, and your listening skills will improve much faster than using only classroom materials.
Quick Tip: Don’t worry about understanding every word—focus on the flow and rhythm. That’s what helps you keep up in real conversations.