Want to speak English faster and more fluently? This blog shares simple and powerful tricks to think in English every day.
Many learners in the UAE understand English but take too long to reply. Why? Because they first think in their native language, then translate into English. This slows you down.
Let’s explore how to stop translating and start thinking in English easily.
Why Thinking in English Is Important
Thinking in English helps you:
- Speak faster without pauses
- Understand English in real time
- Build confidence while talking
- Reduce grammar and translation mistakes
It also helps in job interviews, meetings, and daily conversations in the UAE.
Tricks to Think in English Easily
Let’s go step-by-step with these proven and simple tricks.
1. Start with Simple Words and Sentences
Don’t try to think in long or hard English sentences at first.
Try this:
- Think about your routine: “I am brushing my teeth.”
- Use simple thoughts: “I am going to work.”
Do it daily. These thoughts become natural over time.
2. Label Things Around You
This trick is fun and easy.
What to do:
- Look around and name things in English: chair, table, window
- Say it in your mind: “This is my phone. My bag is black.”
- Do this at home, work, or while shopping
3. Keep an English Diary
Write a few lines about your day in simple English.
Example:
“Today I went to the supermarket. I bought eggs and milk. It was hot outside.”
Writing your thoughts helps you think in English without stress.
4. Use Mental Flashcards
While walking or waiting, play a word game in your head.
- Choose a topic: food, jobs, or clothes
- Think of 5 English words in that topic
- Try to make a short sentence with each
This trains your brain to pull up English words quickly.
5. Speak to Yourself
Yes, it works—even if you do it silently.
- Talk about what you’re doing: “I am cooking dinner.”
- Describe what you see: “That sky looks cloudy.”
- Use a mirror and pretend you’re having a talk
This builds fluency and confidence.
6. Avoid Translating in Your Mind
This is a key rule. Translation wastes time.
Instead:
- Learn phrases, not just words
- Say “Can I help you?” instead of thinking each word
- Focus on meaning, not grammar at first
7. Use English in Real Situations
Use English at work, in stores, or with friends in the UAE.
Say:
- “How much is this?”
- “Can I have a receipt, please?”
- “Is this on sale?”
Every real use helps you think faster next time.
8. Watch English Videos Without Subtitles
Start with subtitles. Then remove them.
- Listen and try to catch the words
- Repeat the sentence in your head
- Pause and speak along
This improves your brain’s listening and thinking speed.
9. Learn Thought Groups
A thought group is a short unit of meaning.
Examples:
- “I’m going / to the shop.”
- “She wants / a cup of tea.”
Think in these small blocks, not word-by-word.
10. Practice Daily with a Routine
Set small goals:
- Think in English for 5 minutes daily
- Add 5 new words to your routine
- Talk for 2 minutes in front of the mirror
The key is daily repetition.
Bonus Tips for UAE Learners
- Use UAE news to form opinions in English
- Practice with English-speaking colleagues
- Join a speaking course to speed up progress
- Book a free session at TutorHelpMe to improve faster
Benefits of Thinking in English
- Faster speaking
- Better grammar use
- Fewer pauses
- More confidence
- Real-time understanding
You become a fluent speaker over time without stress.
Conclusion
Using these tricks to think in English, you’ll speak more fluently and with confidence. Start small, describe your day, label items, or talk to yourself.
The more you use English in your mind, the faster it becomes natural.
👉 Need help? Book a free English speaking session with TutorHelpMe today and start thinking in English with ease.
FAQs
1. Why should I think in English?
It helps you speak faster, avoid translation, and sound natural in real conversations.
2. How long does it take to think in English?
With daily practice, many learners see progress in 4–6 weeks.
3. Can I learn to think in English without a tutor?
Yes, but a tutor helps speed up the process by correcting mistakes and building your confidence.
4. Is watching English movies helpful?
Yes, it improves your listening and helps you form natural thoughts and responses.
5. Can I think in English if I’m a beginner?
Yes! Start with easy words and simple daily sentences. Slowly grow from there.