Learning any foreign language begins with pronunciation.
At first glance, this task seems easy. You need to listen carefully to a native speaker and repeat after him. But in reality, imitating sounds that are new to you is not so easy. For example, the Polish language has many sounds that are not typical for our speech apparatus. Facial muscles that were not previously involved come into play. Even facial expressions change and painful sensations may appear.
First tip: start working on pronunciation with articulation.
Download video lessons or ask a teacher to analyze with you the movements of the lips and tongue when pronouncing each new sound. Repeat deliberately until the discomfort disappears.
Second piece of advice: “immerse yourself” in the language environment.
Watch Polish TV and listen to conversations in transport, shops and other public places.
Listen to the radio, audio books and songs. Use your time to the maximum benefit. Pay attention to the quality of the recording. Bad sound will not allow you to concentrate and hear the speech correctly.
Third tip: read aloud.
This is a good habit for practicing correct pronunciation. If you can't read something, stop and break the complex word into syllables. Say it several times, counting them. Listen to yourself, compare your sound with a native speaker. Record your reading on a dictaphone.
Fourth tip: pay attention to intonation.
Copy announcers, actors, singers. Repeat after them out loud.
Tip 5: Learn phrases, not a bunch of words.
Focus on intonation and correct stress. This method of filling your vocabulary will help you master correct pronunciation.
In conclusion, we will note that speaking Polish without an accent is a difficult but doable task. Regular pronunciation lessons, a competent teacher and your desire to “sound beautifully” are the key to success!
