Sound More Natural in English

How to Sound More Natural in English Conversations: 10 Essential Tips for B2–C1 Learners

At level B2 or C1, you already know a lot of grammar and vocabulary. Still, in daily, informal speech, you feel like something is lacking. You sound too official. You don’t know how to respond quickly. Or your spoken English doesn’t flow the way you’d like it to. Sound More Natural in English

If that rings a bell, don’t worry—you’re not alone! In this article, we’ll discover 10 effective ways to make your English sound more natural, just like native speakers. These are simple, easy-to-use tips that will give you more confidence in everyday conversations.

Use fillers

Native speakers often use small words to fill pauses or give themselves time to think. Used naturally, they make your speech sound more relaxed.

Examples:

• Well, I’m not sure…
• I mean, that’s kind of true.
• You know, it happens.

⚠️ Don’t overdo it—sprinkle them in for effect.

Master backchanneling (show you’re listening)

Backchanneling refers to the small words, sounds, or short phrases that a listener says while someone else is speaking to show they’re listening, interested, and following along.

Common expressions:

• Oh really?
• Mm-hmm.
• That’s interesting.
• I see.

Backchanneling makes conversations more interactive and friendly. Sound More Natural in English

Learn useful discourse markers

Discourse markers are short sentences that help in planning your thoughts, linking them, or changing the topic.

Examples:

• Anyway, what were you saying?
• By the way, did you hear the news?
• That said, I still think we should go.

They maintain free and natural conversational flow.

Use contractions confidently

In spoken English, contractions are a must! Saying I have not instead of I haven’t sounds overly formal or robotic.

Examples:

• She’s working late tonight.
• I wouldn’t do that if I were you.
• They’ll be here soon.

Tip: Practice using contractions aloud to become comfortable. Sound More Natural in English

React with natural interjections

Real conversations are full of reactions. These little words show emotion and keep your tone lively.

Examples:

• No way!
• Wow, that’s amazing!
• Ugh, that’s annoying!
• Ouch!

Try using them when role-playing or chatting informally.

Use specific vocabulary (not just ‘very’ everything)

Level up your adjectives! Instead of saying ‘very good‘ or ‘very tired,’ use stronger, more precise words.

Try this:

• Very happy → Thrilled
• Very cold → Freezing
• Very tired → Exhausted
• Very good → Excellent

This makes your English sound more colourful and expressive.

Start sentences with natural expressions

Beginning a sentence with a natural opener adds rhythm and helps avoid a stiff tone.

Examples:

• To be honest, I didn’t like it.
• Honestly, I’ve never tried it.
• Well, that’s one way to look at it.
• He does have a point, after all.

Keep it short and sweet

Don’t feel pressured to speak in long, perfect sentences. Short replies are totally natural and often preferred.

Examples:

• Absolutely!
• Not really.
• I guess so.
• Could be!

These quick responses help your speech sound authentic and spontaneous. Sound More Natural in English

Practice small talk topics

Small talk is a big part of English conversation, especially in British culture!

Common topics:

• The weather: “Bit chilly today, isn’t it?”
• Weekend plans: “Got anything planned for the weekend?”
• TV/Books: “Have you seen that new series on Netflix?”
• Work/Study: “Busy week at work?”

Being comfortable with small talk makes starting conversations much easier.

Know what not to say (and what to say instead)

Sometimes, formal or direct language can sound out of place in casual conversation. Be aware of these small shifts.

❌ I do not understand you.

✅ Sorry, I didn’t catch that. / What do you mean?

❌ I am not sure.

✅ I’m not sure, to be honest.

❌ That is not correct.

✅ Hmm, I don’t think so.

Knowing these softer, more natural ways to speak makes you sound friendly and fluent.

Conversation challenge: Try these tips today!

Here’s your mini challenge:

• Choose 3 tips from the list above.
• Use them during your next English conversation or language exchange.
• Write down what worked well and what you’d like to improve.

Sounding natural in English isn’t about perfect grammar—it’s about connection, rhythm, and feeling confident enough to be yourself. With these 10 tips, you’re well on your way to speaking like a native.

Keep practising, keep listening, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Every conversation is always a step closer to fluency!

If you really want to learn English but don’t know how to do it and where to start, don’t hesitate to contact us. Book an online English lesson with one of our certified and experienced English teachers and take a test and consultation! Tap the banner to learn more!