Describe the Time When You First Talked in a Foreign Language | IELTS Speaking Cue Card Sept–Dec 2025 | 8 Band
You should say:
Where you were
Who you were with
What you talk about
and explain how you felt about it
Vocab/Idioms
1. Feather in my cap → big achievement
2. On cloud nine → extremely happy
3. Broke the ice → started conversation
4. Like a charm → very effectively
5. Lounge → waiting area
6. Warmly → kindly
Well, to begin with, I strongly believe that language is the bridge that connects people from different cultures. So, I would like to share a memorable incident when I first used a foreign language.
If I talk about where it happened, it was nearly two years ago in Delhi, when I attended my cousin’s wedding. As far as who was with me, I was sitting in the hotel lounge with my cousin. Coincidentally, a group of foreigners was also staying there for a cultural event.
Moving further, one evening a foreign visitor approached us and politely asked for directions in English. At first, I felt a bit nervous because I had never talked to a native English speaker before. Still, I gathered my courage and replied with a smile. I explained to him how he could reach the nearby metro station. Not only did my cousin support me, but also the foreigner understood me completely. He even thanked me warmly, which was truly a feather in my cap.
Last but not least, this short conversation filled me with joy and pride. Honestly speaking, I was on cloud nine because the person understood my words clearly. That day I realized that communication matters more than perfection. Later on, I even joined English-speaking classes, and now I am much more confident.
All in all, that was the very first time I broke the ice in a foreign language, and it worked like a charm in boosting my self-confidence.
Follow-ups
1. At what age should people start learning a foreign language?
To be honest, age doesn’t really matter because anyone can learn. But childhood is the best stage since kids pick up words very fast. For instance, my cousin began English at six and speaks it well now. Even adults can learn if they practice daily.
2. Which skill is more important, speaking or writing?
Well, both are important in different ways. Speaking is needed for daily talks, travelling, or making friends, while writing is useful for school, work, and exams. For example, students need writing to score marks, but speaking for interviews. So, both skills are equally valuable.
3. Does a person still need to learn other languages if he or she is good at English?
Yes, of course. English is a global language, but other languages open more doors. They help people understand cultures and get better chances. For example, in Canada, French is very useful along with English. So, extra languages are always a big advantage.
4. Do you think minority languages will disappear?
Not all, but some may slowly disappear because of globalization. However, many schools and communities try to protect them. For example, in Punjab, children are taught Punjabi along with English. Such efforts can keep minority languages alive for the next generation.