Do you feel like you understand more in class than in real life? You’re not alone. Many students over 50 feel frustrated when trying to follow a conversation in a bar, at the market, or with their neighbours.
In this article, I’ll give you real, practical tips to improve your listening and finally understand Spaniards.
Why is it so hard to understand Spaniards? (It’s not your fault)
Let me be clear: it’s not your fault.
There are a few reasons why it can be difficult at first:
- Spaniards speak fast.
- We shorten words. For example, “para que” becomes “pa’ que”.
- In Andalucía, many people drop the final “s”: los amigos sounds like loh amigo.
This is not “bad Spanish” — it’s the real, everyday way people speak.
Also, Spaniards often speak in a relaxed way, and pronunciation can feel imprecise compared to languages like German or English.
But here’s the good news: once your ear gets used to it, it gets easier.
Practical tips that really work
1. Listen every day (even if you don’t understand everything)
5 to 10 minutes of real audio every day helps.
You don’t have to understand every word. Your brain is learning even when it feels difficult.
2. Start with content made for learners
Use podcasts or YouTube channels for beginners. Don’t try to understand complex films at first.
I recommend my friend Kasia’s channel — it’s clear, slow, and perfect for your level.
3. Make a list of useful expressions
You don’t need perfect grammar.
You need expressions you can use.
Write down phrases like:
- ¿Qué tal?
- Nos vemos.
- No pasa nada.
- ¡Qué bien!
4. Repeat what you hear
Choose a short phrase.
Listen and repeat several times.
You don’t need to learn more vocabulary — you need to use what you already know with confidence.
❌ What NOT to do
- Don’t translate word for word. Spanish has its own rhythm and structure. Over time, it will feel natural.
- Don’t feel frustrated if you don’t understand at first. Learning a language takes patience and daily practice.
- Don’t think it’s too late to learn. Many of my students are in their 60s and 70s — and they’re making amazing progress.
Your ear needs practice, not perfection.
If you practice a little every day, you will start to understand with more confidence.
And the best part is — you can start today.
Want to learn real, everyday Spanish — the kind people actually speak?
Book a session with me and let’s make Spanish simple and useful for your real life in Spain.
🌐 Click here to book your free session → HERE