One of the biggest challenges that language learners face is understanding native speakers of the language they are learning. The recordings you hear in school or through other language apps are much slower and more deliberate than native speakers in the wild - and unfortunately the gap between those recordings and how people really speak is never addressed. It's essential to sprinkle in faster, more natural input from native speakers that’s not recorded for the sole purpose of learners understanding them.

Here are some reasons why language learners struggle to understand native speakers:

1. Native speakers may speak too quickly: Native speakers of a language may speak at a natural pace, which can be too fast for language learners to comprehend. Learners may struggle to keep up with the pace of the conversation and miss important details or nuances.

2. Native speakers may use slang or idiomatic expressions: Native speakers of a language often use slang or idiomatic expressions that can be challenging for learners to understand. These expressions may not be included in language textbooks or courses, and learners may have difficulty deciphering their meanings.

3. Regional accents and dialects: Regional accents and dialects can be difficult for language learners to understand, even if they have a good grasp of the language. Different regions within a country may have distinct accents or dialects, which can vary greatly from standard language used in textbooks or courses.

4. Lack of exposure to authentic materials: Many language learners rely solely on textbooks, courses, or language apps, which may not provide exposure to authentic materials. Authentic materials, such as TV shows, movies, or podcasts, provide learners with exposure to real-world language usage, including slang, regional accents, and idiomatic expressions.

Understanding native speakers can be a significant challenge for language learners. The pace of natural speech, the use of slang or idiomatic expressions, regional accents and dialects, and lack of exposure to authentic materials are all factors that can make it difficult for learners to understand native speakers. However, with practice, exposure to authentic materials, and immersion in the language, learners can improve their listening skills and develop a better understanding of the language.

Sygmatic is built expressly to help you understand native speakers by giving you access to the kinds of natural, everyday conversations you would normally only experience while abroad. By breaking down the contextual components and nonverbal aspects of a conversation and then visualizing pronunciation, we give you all the tools you need to build your listening skills and internalize the natural patterns of speaking so you can talk fluidly with confidence.