ChanellG

It is always better to use simple language when writing, but it also depends on what is writing. Imagery is important to storytelling, for example, but if one is just sharing information it is best to just stick to the facts with as much clarity as possible. Native English speakers in America have a lot of problem with writing though, so someone who is learning shouldn't feel too bad if told their writing is a little wordy or too full of modifiers. A lot of people write the way they speak, and I am sure that is the case in any language.

That's interesting; how do you refer to an object? For example, if I asked "Where is the book?" Your answer in English might be "It is on the table." Without an equivalent to "it" how would you refer to the book when answering me?

Thanks for the welcome, Caparica! First, Meetup is a site where you sign up for different groups that reflect your interest. In my city there are groups for people who like books and reading, for people who like to go out for cocktails, for people who are active in outdoors activities... The Spanish language group gets together every other week to practice and maintain their language skills. It's really for people who are already proficient, but when I signed up I thought it would work like the immersion method for me and force me to really listen and learn. I just never get a chance to go anymore. Thanks!

Thank you! I really want to make an effort with it. My friend is the organizer for a Spanish language meetup group so I would be able to practice, I just need to get busy and get to working at it.

Hello from the southern United States! I studied a little French in my youth, lost a lot through lack of use and now am trying to improve with Spanish. I have a couple CD "courses," but never really slow down to learn. Hopefully I can change that soon.