Hello. My name is Duncan Brown and I am an English Facilitator, here are some of my thoughts about learning the English language.
The Real Reason Many Japanese Adults Understand English but Can’t Speak It
Many adult learners in Japan understand English quite well but struggle to speak it confidently. Why? In most cases, the issue is not intelligence. It is imbalance.
In a language learning environment, input is listening, reading, watching videos, and studying vocabulary and grammar. You receive language.
Output is speaking, writing, conversation, and presentations. You produce language.
Input builds understanding. Output builds ability. You need both to improve your English skills, but not always in equal amounts.
The Ideal Input–Output Balance for Adult English Learners
For most adult learners aiming to speak confidently, a healthy balance is 60% input / 40% output. Why? Because, you need enough exposure to understand patterns, pronunciation, and structure. But speaking ability only develops when you actually speak.
Many learners in Japan have experienced something closer to 90% input / 10% output. That is why they can read and understand English, but cannot speak comfortably.
The Balance Changes Depending on Your Level
Language learning is progressive. The ratio should adjust as your ability grows.
Beginner Level – The Crawling Stage ~70% input / 30% output
At this stage, learners are building vocabulary and learning basic sentence patterns. Input needs to be higher to create a foundation.
However, output is still essential. Short, guided speaking practice helps build early confidence.
Too much output too early creates frustration. Just like crawling comes before walking, stability must come before speed.
Lower-Intermediate – The Walking Stage 60% input / 40% output
Most adult learners in Japan fall into this category. After studying English for six, eight, or even ten years, they already have knowledge. What they often lack is active use.
With controlled conversation, real-life topics, repetition, and feedback, confidence and fluency begin to grow. This is where many learners finally feel progress.
Intermediate and Above – The Running Stage 50% input / 50% output
At this level, longer discussions and natural conversations become accessible. Learners can express personal thoughts, feelings, and opinions. Output becomes extremely important. Fluency is built through doing, not preparing.
Many Japanese Adults Know More English Than They Think
The issue is rarely intelligence. It is often training. Many Japanese adults have strong passive knowledge but have not trained the “output muscle.”
If you understand English but cannot speak smoothly, the problem may not be your ability. Be honest with yourself about your English level, and adjust the ratio accordingly; progress often follows.
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