The challenges of learning a new language are inevitable and apply to students of all ages. Although these challenges may seem daunting, they can be overcome with patience, practice, and a clear understanding of common mistakes. In this blog, we explore the ten most frequent errors students make when studying Spanish, offering practical tips to overcome them. Keep reading and discover how you can improve your Spanish while avoiding these common mistakes!
Common mistakes while learning Spanish and how to overcome them
1. The “ser” and “estar” dilemma
One of the most common mistakes among Spanish learners is the confusion when using the verbs “ser” and “estar”. Distinguishing between the two can be challenging, but it is crucial for communicating accurately in Spanish. Remember, “ser” is used for permanent or essential characteristics, while “estar” applies to temporary conditions or moods. By focusing on how these verbs affect descriptions of people, places, and things, you can perfect their usage.
2. Special verbs: gustar, encantar, and interesar
Special verbs like “gustar,” “encantar,” and “interesar” require a different approach compared to regular verbs. Their conjugation is based on the object rather than the person, which often confuses students. Practice using these verbs with singular and plural objects to perfect their usage in daily conversations.
3. Possessives with body parts: a common omission
Often, students make the mistake of using possessives with body parts when expressing ailments. However, in Spanish, the definite article “la” or “las” is used instead of the possessive. For example, instead of saying “me duele mi cabeza” (my head hurts), it should be “me duele la cabeza” (the head hurts). This small adjustment can make a big difference in grammatical accuracy.
4. The masculine and feminine gender of words
The distinction between masculine and feminine words, especially those that do not follow conventional rules, can pose challenges for Spanish learners. Learning simple tricks, such as identifying the ending “-ema” for masculine words and “-ción” for feminine words, can help remember the gender of words and avoid common mistakes.
5. Avoiding the use of “un otro” or “una otra”
It is vital to remember that in Spanish, “un otro” or “una otra” are never used. Instead, “otro” and “otra” should be used individually or in the plural, depending on the context. This grammatical subtlety may seem insignificant, but it is crucial for precise and authentic communication.
6. The proper use of “por” and “para”
The proper use of “por” and “para” in Spanish can be confusing for students. It is essential to remember that “por” is used to express the duration of an action, while “para” is used to indicate the purpose or destination of an action. Practising with specific examples can help internalise these distinctions.
7. The meaning of “realizar” in Spanish
In Spanish, the verb “realizar” is equivalent to “to do” in many contexts. However, it is important to remember when to use “darse cuenta de” to express the act of realising or becoming aware of something. This linguistic nuance can make a difference in the accuracy of the message you want to convey.
If you want to delve deeper into the correct usage of “darse cuenta de,” you can find several useful examples here.
8. The difference between “traer” and “llevar”
It is essential to understand the distinction between “traer” and “llevar” in Spanish, as their usage is determined by the location of the speaker and the recipient of the action. Practising specific examples of both verbs can help master their application in everyday situations.
9. Avoid the beginning of a sentence with “porque”
Unlike in English, in Spanish, a sentence does not begin with the conjunction “porque.” Instead, “porque” is used in the middle of a sentence to express a cause or reason. Becoming familiar with this linguistic structure helps avoid common errors when forming sentences in Spanish.
10. Distinguishing between “recordar” and “acordarse de”
While both verbs can be translated as “to remember” in English, it is crucial to understand the differences in their structure and usage in Spanish. Practising phrases and situations involving these verbs can help assimilate their proper application in everyday speech.
In conclusion, learning a new language entails the possibility of making mistakes and facing linguistic challenges. However, by addressing these ten common errors, Spanish learners can refine their language proficiency and progress in their learning journey. Remember that consistent practice, patience, and a willingness to make mistakes are essential to achieving fluency in Spanish. Keep up the effort and continue improving your Spanish skills!
We hope this blog has provided you with useful tools and tips to overcome the challenges of learning Spanish. If you are seeking more resources and support in your Spanish learning journey, feel free to explore our private classes designed to address your specific needs and help you achieve your language goals. Do not give up and keep progressing in your Spanish learning adventure! Until next time!
