Speak in chunks, not single words
Fluent speakers are not faster — they use ready-made phrases.
12 minutes · A free lesson from Fluency
Fluent speakers do not build every sentence word by word. They use chunks — phrases they have said so often that they come out in one piece: to be honest, as far as I know, it depends on, I'm not sure, but I think…. Every chunk you learn is one less decision to make while you speak.
Chunks worth learning first
Giving opinions
- To be honest, …
- As far as I'm concerned, …
- I'd say that…
- If you ask me, …
Adding and contrasting
- On top of that, …
- Having said that, …
- The thing is, …
Examples
- For instance, …
- Take my brother, for example.
- A good example is…
Say it out loud (45 seconds): Answer using at least two chunks: "Is it better to live in a city or a village?"
A model answer
To be honest, it depends on what stage of life you're in. When you're young, a city has much more to offer — jobs, friends, things to do. Having said that, if I had children, I'd probably prefer a village, because it's safer and quieter.
Lesson quiz
Check what you have learned. Choose an answer to see whether it is right, and why.
Quick check: What are chunks?
- Ready-made phrases that come out in one piece
- Single difficult words
- Long pauses
Show the answer
A: Ready-made phrases that come out in one piece — to be honest, as far as I know, it depends on…
Quick check: Which chunk gives an opinion?
- “For instance, …”
- “If you ask me, …”
- “On top of that, …”
Show the answer
B: “If you ask me, …” — For instance gives an example, and on top of that adds a point.
Quick check: Why do chunks help fluency?
- They make you speak faster than anyone
- They replace grammar
- Each one is one less decision to make while you speak
Show the answer
C: Each one is one less decision to make while you speak — Fluent speakers are not faster. They use ready-made phrases.