Best tips to understand fast English conversation

Understanding fast English conversation (Advanced)

In order to be a great speaker, you first ought to be a great listener, but most of the non native speakers have a hard time to grasp fast and native English conversation, despite being all ears to it. How to do away with this impediment?
To resolve the issue, it is vital for us to foremost to do a ground check of the reasons behind it. Some of the prime reasons for incomplete comprehension of advanced spoken English are as follows:-

1) Fast English conversation involves usage of great deal of phrases, slangs, joined or reduced words.

2) Native English speakers speak faster and with different accent.

3) Pronounced English is often different from the one written.

For instance, the word "receipt" is pronounced as "receet" , "know" as "no", "laugh" as "laf" and so on.

4) Same letter sounds different while speaking.

For instance, in "love" , "o" sounds as "a" , whereas in "score" it sounds as "o".

Incomprehension of fast English conversation may bring embarrassment at times, thereby hindering our personal and professional growth prospects. To get rid of this, lets try to know some of the effective ways to "understand fast English conversation".

1) Consume video content in English


This is the foremost and best practice to understand fast English conversation. Earlier, I too had a hard time understanding fast or native English speakers, despite having good hold of spoken English. While watching Hollywood movies, I found it extremely difficult to understand most of the sentences. However, I kept on watching more movies along with subtitles and gradually noticed improvement in my understanding ability. Now, I can completely understand everything, without even having to pay much heed. If you do so, initially you might have to pay excess of attention, might also have to refer dictionary more often, but after a period of time on daily exposure you will get expert in it.

Here are some of the tips I want you to follow-

1. Spend daily at least 10 minutes watching English videos with subtitles, in case you don't have much time.

2. You can get a lot of videos on YouTube including motivational videos on TED Talks, news on BBC or CNN, animated videos, or anything that interests you.

3. Try to watch at least one Hollywood movie a week.

4. Listen to English songs on YouTube with lyrics and try to sing along it. Songs provide opportunities for repetition, making you familiar with the language used in it.

5. Listen to stories via audiobooks such as audible, story tel. It aids in building imagination and learning ability. But, you need to subscribe for it, although there is free trail for few days.

For free listening click on the site below. This facility is  provided by audible.

Audible free audio book - https://stories.audible.com/start-listen

If you do all these things daily, you will notice drastic change in your comprehension skills within 3 months.


2) Practice English listening skills


In in order to see faster results, you must definitely try this out. To strengthen listening skills, it is imperative to practice listening activities consciously. it helps to improve pronunciation and understanding of language.

Here are some of my tips to do so -

1. Practice listening through sites. Some of the highly recommend free sites which I use to enhance my students' listening skills are -

British council -https://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/skills/listening

ESL video  -  https://www.eslvideo.com/

Ello  - http://www.elllo.org/english/home.htm

These sites have audios and videos recordings related to different situations along with the transcript and quiz. Transcript includes the written version of the speech spoken in the recording. One can listen to the recordings as many number of times and answer the questions in the quiz given. If you are struggling, you can read the transcript and re listen to the recordings.
These sites provides audio recordings for different levels of comprehension ranging from beginner to advanced, which allows one to work on the exercises pertaining to his own level, which can be judged by taking a free level test provided within the sites.

2.  Try speedy listening challenge. In this activity while watching videos on YouTube, you can speed up the pace of video through settings and check if you are able to understand what is being told in the video. In case you don't understand, rewind a slow down the speed of the video and try to listen again You may also write down what you listen for better understanding.

3) Boost your knowledge of English


When it comes to English our focus gets confined to only grammar, which is important. However, to have a command over spoken or English comprehension skills it is equally significant to be aware of the slangs, phrasal verbs, idioms, speech reductions or contractions which are used a lot in fast English conversations.

Here are some of the examples of each for better understanding –

• Speech contractions
  I'll        =  I will
 You'll   =  You will
 We're  = We were
• Speech reductions
Dunno   =  Don’t know
Coulda. =  Could have
Kinda.   =. Kind of
Gonna  =. Going to
•  Slangs
Epic (great or elegant)-. That book was epic.
Cool- Your hairstyle is so cool.
•   Phrases
Hangout – I like to hangout with my friends on weekends.
Figure out- We will try to figure out the reasons for the spread of virus.


4) Indulge in reading


Now, you must be wondering, what role does reading play in understanding spoken English! Right? Well! English comprehension skills are linked to our English reading skills. While reading, our subconscious mind automatically picks up new words, phrases, slangs, speech reductions or  contractions and we eventually get the  hang of it.

Some of the tips for reading are -

1. Try to pick novels or story books for this purpose as they generally use more informal words and sentences, which are mostly used by native speakers.

2. Try to speak and read, as you do so, you know how you pronounce certain word or sentence. In case, if you don't get the meaning or pronunciation of any word, refer to a good dictionary like Cambridge dictionary. Thus, when others speak you will be able to comprehend better.

3. Don't get stuck or search the meaning of every new word or phrase. On reading a lot, you will eventually discover the commonly used words and can refer dictionary for their meanings.

4. Make it your habit to read at least two articles daily from English newspaper.


5) Know more about English grammar


At last, you can always refer to good grammar books to enhance your language comprehension skills. Working on grammar exercises makes us familiar with different sentence structures. Therefore, we can easily recognise common sentence structures which reading or listening.

Bonus tip


For better and faster results,  devote at least one hour from your busy schedule and divide it into  three parts with –
• 10 minutes of video from You tube
• 20 minutes listening skill practise from the        above mentioned sites
• 30 minutes of reading
If you follow all these guidelines, you will definitely bring improvement in your English understanding skills.

Life of a glamour world



Life is full of bizzare experiences. In a mad city like Mumbai where everyone juggles with their life, where the air is full of hustle and bustle, I feel myself standing in utmost solitary amidst darkness. As everyone, I too came here to make my career in Bollywood with million dreams shining in my eyes through the glitter of the city, but I ended up being alone. I gave my everything I could to fulfill my desires. I diligently worked day and night out to brush up on my skills thinking someday I would be recognised and that very would mark the end of my ordeals. But that's when everything went wrong. I was recognised not only for my talent but also for my body. I landed in the honey trap where there is no worth of a person, the only worth is of the person's body. I totally ran out of money and emotions. I screamed out loudly but no one could hear me. I could not break open the bounds of the deceptive world. My eyes filled with tears and my heart became empty and finally I was left alone.....

10 Must places to see in Diu

10 Must places to see in Diu

If you really want to revive and rejuvenate your mind and spirit, Diu is one of the finest places you must consider in your bucket holiday list!

I experienced Diu as a part of my Gujarat trip booking a travel agent in Somnath who arranged for car and showed us the major landmarks out there. Diu is a coastal town overlooking Arabian Sea at the Eastern end of the Diu Island, India. A bridge connects the island to the state of Gujarat.
Best time to visit Diu is from September to February. Diu remains a bit hot and more humid in summer season as it's a coastal area. Ideally two days are enough to cover all the major landmarks but it depends if one  wants to reside in nature's lap for some more time.


So, here I prepare a list of 10 places that you must put in your must see list on your visit the island.

The major site seeings of Diu are-

1.Diu Fort

The renowned Diu fort has historical significance tagged to it as it was built subsequent to a strategic defensive alliance between the Portuguese and Bahadur Shah, Sultan of Gujarat to check the annexation of the territory by Mughals. It is surrounded by the sea on three sides offering a magnificent view of the sea. It also commands a spectacular view of Panikota Fort located in the sea, of the coast, opposite to Diu Fort, which once served as a jail for Diu Island. The fort also houses heavily guarded cannons on all sides.

2.Nagoa Beach

Synonyms to Goa, the Nagoa Beach is perfect place to witness remarkable view of the sunrise or sunset or to just stroll around the white sand. The uniquely distinguishable 'Hoka trees' spotted only in Diu in India, adds to its charm. On the adventurous side, one can enjoy activities like parasaling, scuba diving, water scooter.

3.Naida Caves

Located just a few metres away from the Diu Fort, Naida Caves will leave you awestruck. It sets the prime example of nature's work of art. The caves are intricate network of tunnels and step like structures having natural light opening which makes it photogenic and attracts pre wedding photo shoots. Caves are formed as a result of different geological processes. During the 20th century, when Portuguese were adamant of not leaving Diu, under operation Vijay, several Indian soldiers were stationed in Naida caves to seize control of the territory. Moreover, the caves are reckoned one of the most magnificent natural attractions since prehistoric times.

4.Gangeshwar Mahadev temple

The temple believed to be established by Pandavas, famous for its five Shivlingas succeeds to uplift one's mind and spiritual being. The Shivlingas often gets washed by the sea waves during high tides. Besides, holding mythological reverence, the temple surrounded by cliffs and sea make it picturesque.

5.INS Khukri Memorial

INS khukri Memorial pays homage to the valiant martyrs of Indo Pak Submarine war of 1971, who decided to embrace death rather than to surrender themselves to the enemy. Indian submarine was shot with torpedoes and started to sink when the 18 officers and 176 sailors on board were issued the orders to hand over them to the invaders and indeed save their lives. However, the officers discarded the offer and chose death to it. The memorial site is a monument with a small replica of INS Khukri- the Indian Navy Ship. Later, the commanding officer Captain Mahendra Nath Mulla was awarded Mahavir Chakra posthumously.

6. Diu museum

Saint Thomas Church was converted into a museum in 1997 which is a repository of artefacts including antique statues, wooden carvings, stone inscriptions, idols, shadow clocks, worn out and faded portraits and paintings left behind by the Portuguese. The architecture of the church building was Gothic. A beautifully maintained garden leads up to the elevated museum, to be reached through a series of stairs. At night, museum is illuminated by coloured lights from the outside creating a striking image.

7. St Paul's Church

Around 400 year old, Saint Paul's Church, dedicated to our lady of Immaculate conception, built by the Portuguese, is one the finest instance of baroque architecture in India. The exquisite wood carvings, splendid facade, volutes and shell like motifs is real feast to eyes. Sitting in utmost silence while sinking in the aura of the church is soul soothing in itself.



8.Ghoghla beach

Ghoghla beach located in the outskirts of the city is one of the top places in India to relax and explore. It is touted to be the best eco friendly beach in India. Lesser footfalls on the beach makes its pristine, hence is clean compared to other beaches. One can also indulge in water sports like surfing, parasailing, and banana boat.





9.Zampa Geteway

The Gateway is painted with bright red colour and is beautifully carved with angels, lions and a priest. It holds immense historical significance doesn't fail to enthrall its guests.

10.Diu market

One of the most famous is the Town Square market where you get to buy the sleepers, bamboo mats other attractive handicrafts. There are shops selling custom goods and decorative utility articles. Articles made of pearls and shells can be purchased from shops near beaches. Cashews and other dry fruits can also be purchased at reasonable rates. Overall, the shops in Diu sells a wide range of items to satisfy every shopaholic's desire.

Despite being a small union territory Diu has abundance of nostalgia to offer as it is rich in its cultural heritage due to the blend of English Portuguese and Indian culture. Diu experience will mesmerize you with the yearning to revisit the place.

Gujarat tour

Must visit places in Gujarat


Finally, I returned from the long impending trip of Gujarat with my family, taking break from my monotonous schedule. Gujarat located on the Western coast of India relates us to a host of exotic culture and traditions.Gujrat is a home to friendly and modest Gujarati people. My Gujarat excursion is a memorable one, so here I am going to share my personal Gujarat trip experience, which will definitely serve useful for mediocre income level people who plan for perfect holiday!
Here you go!!

The major cities to travel in Gujrat are Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Porbandar, Dwarka, Vadodara, Surat, Gulf of Kutch (inlet), Diu(island near Gujarat), Somnath.

Ahmedabad

I made my Gujarat trip in the month of January (winters are best to visit the place), donning just a light jacket throughout the journey. I embarked on my journey from New Delhi railway station boarding Rajdhani Express destined to Ahmedabad junction. The comfortable train journey took around 14 hours. From Ahmedabad Railway Station we booked auto to nearby hotel. You can get a lot of hotels at affordable prices around Ahmedabad Railway Station. In Ahmedabad, we hired auto(you can hire a cab) to show us the famous tourist spots of the city. The must watch tourist spots in Ahmedabad are the following-

Kankaria Lake

This lake is equipped with various amusement rides, food stall etc, as in amusement park, to spend some relaxing quality time with family.


Siddi Sayed Mosque

The major highlight of this mosque include the carved jalis in the windows of the western wall depicting a tree with interwining branches. Built in 1573, the last year of Gujarat sultanate before the Mughals invaded, the craftsmanship of this mosque is nearly unparalleled in the world.


Akshardham Temple

Akshardham Temple is located in Gandhinagar, is about 25 KM away from Amhedabad. The temple is devoted to Swaminarayan and is the best example of contemporary architecture and style. Akshardham is considered a place of education(with a museum), enlightment.

We got ourselves clicked with the background of temple for a perfect soverneir in just 100 bucks!


Sabarmati Ashram

Tying my hands on 'charkha'

Popularly known Gandhi Ashram was built by Gandhiji after he returned from South Africa in 1915. Mahatma desired to pursue works related to agriculture, animal husbandry, and khadi udyog from here. A number of Indian and international tourists flock here to have a look at the reminiscences of the ‘Life of Gandhi’, his great works full of accomplishments and shortcomings while endeavouring to build new India.


ISKON Temple

The beautiful temple of ISKCON, also known as Hare Krishna Mandir, showcases the blend of Gujarat Sompura and Rajasthani Khamira style ofarchitecture.Though the temple is dedicated to Krishna and Radha, it also houses idols of various other deities of Hindu mythology. It witnesses a huge footfall of devotees, who fill up the premises with energizing and enchanting chants of ‘Hare Rama Hare Krishna’.


Adalaj step well

Built in sandstone, the 5 stories step well is a fine example of Indian architecture, adorned with beautiful platforms and galleries. The shafts of the well are profusely carved with floral and geometric motifs, interspersed with a number of figurines. It was dug deep to store groundwater and access it accounting to fluctuations in rainfall.


Hathee Singh jain temple

The temple is dedicated to 15th Jain Trithanakara named Dharmnath. The temple is renowned for its fabulous architectural styling and designing that consists of intricate carvings. The temple is a double storied construction that features a dome on the front side. The other two sides of the temple consist of lavishly carved out galleries, making it one of the most elegant jain temple in India, which is worth a visit.


Vaishnodevi Temple

Vaishnodevi Temple of Ahmedabad is a man made replica of the original Vaishno Devi temple of Jammu Kashmir and to give a real feel of the environment of the sacred temple, it has been set above a mock hill.The standstone made hill houses several beautiful carvings and sculptures of gods and goddesses related to Hindu mythology. The main shrine is placed at the top of the hill and pilgrims have to walk all the way towards it.


Sri Balaji Temple

Sri Venkateswaraswamy temple was constructed by Ahmedabad Andhra MahaSabha to replicate Sri Venkateswara Temple of Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, to provide the devotees of Lord Sri Balaji residing in and around Gujarat, the chance to offer prayers to their almighty.


Lal Darwaza

This is among the famous shopping areas of Ahmedabad. Lal Darwaza is a grand arched gate that is among the many gates of Ahmedabad.The place is a huge market where you can buy myraid range of stuff like dresses of Gujarat, kids wear, cosmetics, soft toys, etc at affordable prices. You can taste the delicious street food of Ahmedabad like Dhokla, Paan, Pani Puri etc.



Vastrapur Lake

This man-made lake in Ahmedabad offers a perfect ambience amid calm water of river and greenry for relaxation and peace with friends and family. It also has a jogging track surrounding the lake, a children’s park, and an open-air theatre for cultural and entertainment programmes and events.


Sabarmati River Front

This 10.4 km long riverfront stretch, developed along the banks of Sabarmati river consists of the walkway over the river Sabarmati, gardens, amusement parks, golf courses, water Sports Park.One can also do cycling around the river front by borrowing cycle, paying a nominal fee. Kite festival is also hosted here, every year in January.

Kite museum

Regarded to be one the unique museums, one can see here multitude of kites and types of papers that are used to make kites. The collection of custom made kites includes mirror work kites, 16-22 cm long kites, Japanese kites, and block print kites.


All these major points can be easily covered in 2 days of stay in Ahmedabad. After enjoying in Ahmedabad we headed towards Dwarka by train which usually takes 8 to 10 hours( bus services are also available). I was reluctant to go there but had no other option other than to accompany my parents, so there we arrived at the most renowned shrine the major highlight of which- "Dwarkadhish temple" is counted among the Char Dham of Hindu religion.I was wonderstruck by the architectural design of the temple and could not stop myself thinking as to how people in the past without any modern technology, made such glorious sky touching temples with perfect cravings on them.
 There, fortunately, somehow we managed to pull ourselves through the crowd and to get the darshan of the deity- 'Dwarkadhish'. We stood there for a while to see the flag on the top of the temple being changed. While returning, we got a photograph clicked by photographer as photography is prohibited inside the temple premises.

Dwarka

In Dwarka, we booked a tourist bus which showed us the major points of the place including the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Bet Dwarka- which is an island and can only reached by boat, Rukhmani Temple and Gopi talab- in which there is only namesake water and is not worthy of visiting, but one can get gopi chandan for 5 bucks.

  Nageshwar Jyotirlinga temple

  Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple

  Rukhmani Temple

  Journey by boat to Bet Dwarka


Somnath

From Dwarka, we headed towards the renowned " Somnath Temple", which is considered the most prominent among the lord Shivas '12 Jyotirling'. I was awed to see the architecture, beauty and serenity of the place. The holy chants, vibrations, prayers, matras, sound of the sea waves aside the temple, makes the ambience of the place majestic, taking over to a different world. Visiting that place was not less than a mental therapy. In the evening, we enjoyed the light and sound show- which briefs about the development of the temple. We experienced the spectacular sunset in the sea. In Somnath, one can also book a cab and witnesses some of the landmarks around the city.

  Somnath Temple

  Triveni Sangam Temple

  A temple around Somnath

From Somnath we went to Gir forest-  the experience was disappointing considering the expense and time spent on it as it was more of a zoo Safari than a forest one that too with brief bus ride of around 30 minutes, capturing only to sleeping lioness, three leopards and a fair amount of deers.

  Gir forest

Diu

Next day, from Somnath we went to Diu, booking a personal car, who drove us to the major attractions of the place including the Diu Fort, Nagoa Beach, Diu Church & Museum, Shopping Complex, Pani Kotha Jail, Naydu Caves, Gangeshwar Temple and INS Kukri Memorial.

The Diu Island seemed like a foreign land (as it is influenced by Portuguese culture) with clean roads and civilised locals. Apart from the picturesque beauty, we personally enjoyed "Naydu Caves" the most, where you can spend a good serene time. Gujarat trip is incomplete without Diu.

  Nagoa Beach

After 2 days of halt in Somnath, we left for Ahmedabad again as we awaited to experience the tallest statue of the world -" Statue of Unity" (182 m). The gigantic statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel located on a  river island facing the Sardar Sarovar Dam on river Narmada in Kevadiya Colony, proved to be worthy given the long and tedious journey which we set from Ahmedabad to reach the isolated place,as it lacks effective transport connectivity from Vadodara.

  Statue of Unity


The statue of 'Iron Man of India' concluded our trip to Gujarat. We returned our home via train, spending the next day reminiscing the moments of excursion while penning it down!