Making the Case for Practical English: Write It Like You Say It

  • Home
  • Making the Case for Practical English: Write It Like You Say It
images
  • January 14, 2026
  • 2 min read
Making the Case for Practical English: Write It Like You Say It

In many non-English speaking countries, English education often focuses heavily on grammar rules, formal structures, and rigid writing formats. While these are important, they can leave learners sounding overly stiff or robotic — especially in writing. The result? Perfect sentences that don’t feel natural. In today’s world, where communication is fast, global, and often digital, there’s a growing need to develop Practical English — the kind of English that’s spoken and written the way people actually use it.

The truth is, how you speak should influence how you write. When you speak, you’re usually clear, direct, and expressive. That’s exactly what practical writing needs to be. Whether it’s an email, a report, or even a social media post, the most effective English writing is often conversational — not overly formal or filled with outdated phrases. For example, instead of writing “Kindly be informed that your application has been received,” you could simply say, “Thanks! We got your application.” It’s still professional, but sounds more human and relatable.

This approach is especially useful in today’s workplaces and academic settings, where clear and natural communication is more valued than long-winded formalities. It’s also more inclusive. Practical English helps people feel more confident expressing themselves, especially when English isn’t their first language. When learners are encouraged to write how they speak, they stop worrying about sounding perfect and start focusing on being understood.

Developing this skill doesn’t mean ignoring grammar or structure — it means building the ability to adapt your tone for real-life situations. It’s about writing emails that sound like real conversations, giving presentations that feel authentic, and messaging in a tone that’s natural but respectful. To build this kind of English, students need exposure to real conversations, guided practice, and feedback from teachers who understand how English works in the real world — not just in textbooks.

Practical English helps students thrive in daily life, global workplaces, and beyond. It’s not just about what you say — it’s about how naturally and clearly you say it, whether spoken or written.