5 Phrases to Help You Sound More Natural in Any Language

Learning a new language is exciting, but let’s be real—textbook language and real-life conversations are two completely different things. You might be able to introduce yourself perfectly and order a coffee, but as soon as a native speaker responds casually, suddenly, you’re lost.

That’s because sounding natural in a language isn’t just about knowing words—it’s about using the right phrases, tone, and expressions that locals actually use.

If you want to move beyond robotic textbook speech and blend in naturally, here are five essential phrases that will make you sound more conversational in any language.

1. “Wait, how do you say that?”

(A casual way to ask for a word)

When learning a new language, there’s a good chance you’ll forget words mid-conversation (because, same). Instead of freezing or awkwardly switching to English, use this phrase to ask for help like a native would.

💡 Why It’s Useful:

• Keeps the conversation going naturally

• Shows you’re actively learning instead of giving up

• Makes native speakers feel like they’re helping, which builds rapport

✅ Try using it in different ways:

• Korean: 그거 뭐라고 해요? (Geugeo mworago haeyo?)

• Spanish: ¿Cómo se dice eso? (Cómo seh dee-seh eso?)

• Thai: อันนั้นเรียกว่าอะไร (An-nán rîak wâa à-rai?)

✨ Pro Tip: If someone gives you the word, repeat it back and try to use it right away to reinforce your memory!

2. “Ohhh, I see what you mean!”

(A natural way to acknowledge understanding)

In conversations, we naturally react to what people say instead of just nodding in silence. Adding a quick reaction phrase makes you sound more engaged and responsive.

💡 Why It’s Useful:

• Helps keep the flow of conversation natural

• Makes you sound less like a language learner and more like a local

• Encourages the other person to keep talking

✅ Try using variations based on the situation:

• Korean: 아 그렇구나! (Ah, geureokuna!) → “Ahh, I get it!”

• Spanish: ¡Ahh, ya veo (entendí/comprendo)! → “Ohh, now I see!”

• Thai: อ๋อ เข้าใจแล้ว (Ăw khâo-jai láew) → “Ohhh, I get it now”

✨ Pro Tip: Practice with natives on apps like Hello Talk and Speaky.

3. “No worries, it happens!”

(A polite way to respond when someone makes a mistake)

Every language has a go-to phrase for reassuring someone when they apologize or make a small mistake. Using this makes you sound friendly and approachable rather than just saying, "It’s okay."

💡 Why It’s Useful:

• Helps in social situations (like when someone bumps into you)

• Encourages conversation instead of cutting it short

• Makes you sound relaxed and easygoing

✅ Try using it in daily interactions:

• Korean: 괜찮아요! (Gwaenchanayo!) → “It’s okay / No worries!”

• Spanish: ¡No pasa nada! → “It’s all good!”

• Thai: ไม่เป็นไร (Mâi bpen rai) → “No worries!”

✨ Pro Tip: You can adapt this phrase depending on how formal or casual the situation is!

4. “Uhh… what’s the word for…?”

(A smooth way to fill silence when you’re searching for a word)

Ever forgotten a word mid-sentence and just froze in awkward silence? Instead of stopping completely, use this phrase to buy yourself time while keeping the conversation moving.

💡 Why It’s Useful:

• Keeps you from panicking or switching to English

• Helps you think in your target language instead of translating

• Makes you sound like a natural speaker, not a student

✅ Different ways to say it:

• Korean: 그거 뭐지? (Geugeo mwoji?) → "Uh… what was that again?"

• Spanish: ¿Cómo se llama…? (Cómo seh ya-mah…?) → "What’s that called…?"

• Thai: คำว่าอะไรนะ (Kham wâa à-rai ná?) → "What’s the word again?"

✨ Pro Tip: If you still can’t remember, describe the word instead—it keeps the conversation flowing!

5. “For real?! No way!”

(A fun way to react in casual conversations)

Most conversations are not just about exchanging information—they’re about connecting with people. Using expressions of surprise, excitement, or disbelief makes your speech more authentic and engaging.

💡 Why It’s Useful:

• Shows you’re truly engaged in the conversation

• Helps you sound more expressive and fluent

• Encourages native speakers to keep sharing stories with you

✅ Try these fun expressions:

• Korean: 진짜요?! (Jinjja-yo?) → "For real?!"

• Spanish: ¿En serio?! → "Seriously?!"

• Thai: จริงเหรอ (Jing rŏr?) → "For real?!"

✨ Pro Tip: Reacting naturally and emotionally makes you sound more fluent—don’t be afraid to exaggerate a little!

Final Thoughts: Speak Like a Native, Not a Textbook

Using real, conversational phrases will instantly make you sound more natural and confident in any language. Instead of focusing only on grammar and vocabulary, work on using reaction words, fillers, and everyday expressions—that’s what will truly help you blend in.

📌 Quick Recap of the 5 Phrases:
✅ “Wait, how do you say that?” (Ask for a word smoothly)
✅ “Ohhh, I see what you mean!” (React naturally in conversations)
✅ “No worries, it happens!” (Politely reassure someone)
✅ “Uhh… what’s the word for…?” (Fill silence while thinking)
✅ “For real?! No way!” (Sound expressive and engaging)

The next time you’re practicing your target language, try sneaking these phrases into your conversations. You’ll be surprised how quickly you start sounding like a local. 😉

🗣️ Which of these phrases do you already use? Have any fun expressions in your target language? Drop them in the comments below!