In certain situations, you may find it necessary to tell someone you’re not proficient in English. Whether traveling, in a business setting, or simply interacting with others, it’s important to convey this politely and clearly.
Struggling to communicate? Saying “I don’t speak English” in English helps others understand you may need assistance or a translation. This simple phrase is useful when traveling, meeting new people, or navigating language barriers.
List of Different Ways to Say ‘I Don’t Speak English’ in English:
- I’m not fluent in English.
- English is not my first language.
- I’m still learning English.
- I don’t understand English very well.
- My English is a little rusty.
- Can we speak in simpler terms?
- I’m not comfortable speaking in English.
- I can understand written English better than spoken.
- I struggle with English grammar.
- My vocabulary in English is limited.
- I only speak a little English.
- I can read English better than I can speak it.
- I’m having trouble understanding English.
- I speak basic English.
- I’m not confident in my English skills.
- I need help with translation.
- I’m working on improving my English.
- Could you repeat that in simpler words?
- I have difficulty following fast English conversations.
- I prefer to communicate in my native language.
- English is difficult for me to understand.
1. “I’m not fluent in English.”
Sometimes, you may understand a bit but aren’t comfortable with full conversations. In this case, you can say, “I’m not fluent in English” to imply that you understand some, but not enough for in-depth discussions.
Scenario Example:
Email to Darcy regarding a meeting
Hi Darcy,
I hope this message finds you well.
I wanted to let you know in advance that I’m not fluent in English. I can understand some parts of the conversation but might struggle to respond quickly or accurately. I would appreciate it if we could keep things simple during our meeting.
If possible, could you also provide written summaries afterward? That would really help me.
Thank you for your understanding, and I look forward to working together.
Best regards,
Elizabeth
2. “English is not my first language.”
This is a polite and widely understood way to express that English isn’t your main language of communication.
Scenario Example:
Email to Darcy, a client asking for clarification on a proposal
Dear Darcy,
Thank you for the detailed proposal. I have reviewed it, but I wanted to let you know that English is not my first language. While I understand most of the points, some sections were a bit unclear to me. Could you possibly clarify the terms in simpler language?
I look forward to your response.
Best regards,
Elizabeth
3. “I’m still learning English.”
This suggests that you’re actively trying to improve your language skills but aren’t there yet.
Scenario Example:
In a Zoom call with an international team
Hi Darcy,
I just want to mention at the beginning of the meeting that I’m still learning English. If you could speak a little slower or explain things in simpler terms, it would be really helpful for me.
Thank you so much! I appreciate your patience.
Best regards,
Elizabeth
4. “I don’t understand English very well.”
If your comprehension is limited, you can use this phrase to request further explanations or assistance.
Scenario Example:
Phone conversation with a customer service representative
Hi Darcy,
I’m sorry, but I don’t understand English very well. Could you please repeat that slowly or maybe explain it in simpler words?
Thank you, I appreciate your help.
Elizabeth
5. “My English is a little rusty.”
If you haven’t spoken English in a while and your skills are fading, this is a polite way to explain.
Scenario Example:
Conversation with a colleague after returning from a long stay in a non-English-speaking country
Hi Darcy,
I wanted to mention that my English is a little rusty. It’s been a while since I’ve had to use it regularly, so I might need some time to get back into the swing of things. If I make mistakes, please don’t hesitate to correct me!
Thanks for understanding.
Best,
Elizabeth
6. “Can we speak in simpler terms?”
Sometimes, asking for simpler words can be more effective than stating that you don’t understand.
Scenario Example:
Text message to a friend explaining language barriers
Hi Darcy,
I’m finding the conversation a bit difficult to follow. Can we speak in simpler terms? I want to make sure I fully understand what you’re saying.
Thanks a lot!
Elizabeth
7. “I’m not comfortable speaking in English.”
If you feel anxious about speaking English, this phrase is a perfect way to express your discomfort without offending the other person.
Scenario Example:
Reply to an invitation for a phone interview
Hi Darcy,
Thank you so much for the interview opportunity. I just wanted to let you know that I’m not comfortable speaking in English over the phone, as I might not be able to express myself clearly. Would it be possible to conduct the interview via email or in a written format instead?
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Best regards,
Elizabeth
8. “I can understand written English better than spoken.”
If reading English is easier for you than listening or speaking, you can let people know that written communication is more effective.
Scenario Example:
Email after a difficult phone call with a colleague
Hi Darcy,
I wanted to follow up on our call earlier. I can understand written English better than spoken, so I might have missed some points in our conversation. Could you kindly send me the key details in an email so I can review them properly?
Thanks for your support.
Best regards,
Elizabeth
9. “I struggle with English grammar.”
This explains that your difficulty lies more in the structure and rules of the language.
Scenario Example:
In a collaborative work environment
Hi Darcy,
I’m excited to work with you, but I want to let you know up front that I struggle with English grammar. I can get my point across, but sometimes my sentences might not be perfect. I hope you don’t mind if I ask for help from time to time.
Thanks for your understanding!
Best,
Elizabeth
10. “My vocabulary in English is limited.”
If you know the basics but find yourself searching for the right words, this is a good way to explain your limitation.
Scenario Example:
Discussing a technical issue with a client
Hi Darcy,
I understand the general issue, but I must admit that my vocabulary in English is limited. Could you explain it in layman’s terms? I want to make sure I fully grasp the problem.
Thank you so much!
Best,
Elizabeth
11. “I only speak a little English.”
This simple statement is useful in quick interactions, like when you’re ordering food or asking for directions.
Scenario Example:
Ordering at a restaurant
Excuse me, Darcy,
I only speak a little English, but I would like to order a salad and water, please.
Thank you!
Elizabeth
12. “I can read English better than I can speak it.”
Reading is often easier than speaking, so this phrase lets others know how best to communicate with you.
Scenario Example:
After receiving documents for review
Hi Darcy,
Thank you for sending over the documents. I wanted to let you know that I can read English better than I can speak it, so if we could keep our communication in written form, I’d be able to contribute more effectively.
Best,
Elizabeth
13. “I’m having trouble understanding English.”
If you’re in a situation where English is too difficult to follow, you can use this phrase to ask for assistance.
Scenario Example:
In a meeting that’s moving too fast
Excuse me, Darcy,
I’m sorry to interrupt, but I’m having trouble understanding English at the pace we’re speaking. Could we slow down a bit or summarize what’s been discussed so far?
Thank you so much!
Elizabeth
14. “I speak basic English.”
This tells the other person that you know enough to get by but may need some help.
Scenario Example:
Introducing yourself at a social event
Hi Darcy,
I just wanted to introduce myself. I speak basic English, so please forgive me if I don’t catch everything right away. But I’d love to practice with you if you’re willing!
Best,
Elizabeth
15. “I’m not confident in my English skills.”
For people who understand the language but feel unsure, this is a respectful way to explain.
Scenario Example:
Replying to a potential job offer
Hi Darcy,
Thank you so much for the offer. I’m excited about the opportunity, but I have to admit that I’m not confident in my English skills. Will there be training or support to help improve my communication if necessary?
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Best regards,
Elizabeth
16. “I need help with translation.”
If you rely on others or a tool to help you communicate, this is a clear request for assistance.
Scenario Example:
In a technical discussion
Hi Darcy,
I’m following the conversation, but I’ll need some help with certain terms. I need help with translation for the more technical jargon. Is there someone who can assist, or should I use an online tool?
Thanks for your understanding!
Best,
Elizabeth
17. “I’m working on improving my English.”
If you’re actively trying to get better, this phrase shows your commitment and invites patience from others.
Scenario Example:
After receiving feedback on a report
Hi Darcy,
Thank you for your feedback on my report. I’m working on improving my English, so I appreciate any suggestions you have on how I can express things more clearly.
Best regards,
Elizabeth
18. “Could you repeat that in simpler words?”
This is a direct way to ask for clarification when you’re struggling to follow.
Scenario Example:
In a meeting where technical terms are being used
Hi Darcy,
Sorry, I missed that. Could you repeat that in simpler words? I want to make sure I understand the next steps properly.
Thanks!
Elizabeth
19. “I have difficulty following fast English conversations.”
In fast-paced discussions, this phrase allows you to request slower communication.
Scenario Example:
In a conference where people are speaking rapidly
Hi Darcy,
I’m really interested in this topic, but I have difficulty following fast English conversations. Could you send a summary afterward so I can catch up on anything I missed?
Best,
Elizabeth
20. “I prefer to communicate in my native language.”
If you’re in a situation where using your native language is an option, this phrase politely lets others know.
Scenario Example:
During a bilingual event
Hi Darcy,
I’d like to participate fully in this conversation, but I prefer to communicate in my native language if possible. Could we arrange for a translator, or is there someone who can assist me?
Best regards,
Elizabeth
21. “English is difficult for me to understand.”
This phrase clearly indicates that you’re having trouble with the language itself.
Scenario Example:
After being sent a complicated document
Hi Darcy,
I’ve gone through the document, but English is difficult for me to understand in this context. Could you provide a simplified version or explain the key points to me?
I really appreciate your assistance!
Best,
Elizabeth
