How to remember English and maintain a stable level of knowledge

29 January 2026

English-learners

Oleksandra Kulish

Book expert

There is a belief that if you study a language diligently, the knowledge will stay with you forever. But is this really the case? Is it possible to forget a foreign language? Let's be honest: it is much easier to forget a language than to learn it. There is a direct correlation — the lower your level of proficiency, the faster your knowledge disappears. Of course, basic things like the alphabet, basic rules, or simple vocabulary will stay with you for a long time. But grammar and more complex language structures are quickly forgotten without practice and repetition. The most vulnerable skill is spoken language: it deteriorates the fastest if it is not used and developed.

It often happens that people receive a certificate of high proficiency — Upper-Intermediate or even Advanced — and believe that English is now their “native” language and it is impossible to forget it. This is a common myth. Yes, after receiving a certificate, you will not lose your level in a few months, but without regular practice, your skills will gradually weaken, and rarely used vocabulary will disappear first.

There are no “resting platforms” in language learning. It is impossible to fix knowledge once and for all without further practice. Therefore, the choice is simple: either you continue to move forward, developing your language skills, or you prepare for a slow but inevitable return to a lower level.

Tips for maintaining your language level: how not to forget English?

We understand perfectly well that giving up language lessons is not always a conscious choice. Sometimes circumstances are such that there is not enough time, money, or simply energy for regular lessons with a teacher. That is why we have put together a few simple and unobtrusive ways to help you remember a foreign language. They will help you maintain your English at the level you have achieved without spending a lot of time and resources.

1. Speak English for at least a few minutes a day

Speaking skills are usually lost the fastest, so it's worth spending at least 5-10 minutes on them every day. Don't know what to talk about? Create imaginary situations. You can talk to yourself about what's on your mind (this is also a great psychological release), share your thoughts on a book you've read, discuss world news or fashion trends.

The ideal option is to find someone to talk to. However, this is not always easy. If you can't find a native speaker, don't be discouraged. There are platforms on the internet where you can find a partner with the right level of English and practice communicating.

2. Translate texts from English

Choose texts on topics that interest you and translate them. This exercise effectively expands your vocabulary and helps you get a better feel for the structure of the language. If you are interested in journalism, copywriting, or rewriting, translated materials can also be useful practice with real-world application.

3. Read before bed

Reading is one of the most effective ways to maintain your language skills. You regularly encounter familiar words, reinforce them, and learn new vocabulary at the same time. Plus, it's a fun and relaxing activity. To keep reading from becoming a chore, pick books that you'd enjoy reading in your native language. Even 10-15 minutes before bed and 5-10 pages a day will give you noticeable results.

4. Watch shows and series in English

Don't like reading? No problem — you probably have a favorite TV series or entertainment show, for example. Watching content in English takes only 20-40 minutes a day, but it brings tangible benefits. You get used to the living language, different accents, and natural intonation.

If you have more time, check out Hollywood movies — watching them in the original is really enjoyable. You can choose movies and TV shows according to your level of knowledge so that learning is comfortable and not exhausting.

5. Try yourself as a mentor

We are not suggesting that you become an English teacher — this requires special training. But you can, for example, help those who are just learning the language for free: your child, friend, or acquaintances. Explain the rules, help with translations, answer questions. For them, it will be valuable support, and
for you, it will be a great way to keep your knowledge and skills sharp. If there is no one in your circle who is willing to learn, join online forums or communities for those who are learning English. Share tips, communicate with like-minded people, and enjoy the process.

6. Look for information in English

Every day we search for something on the internet: a recipe, a review of a product, or shopping advice. Try doing this in English. There is much more information available on the global internet than in local sources, and reviews of new products often appear much earlier.

7. Subscribe to English-language pages on social media

Social media has long been a part of our lives. Some people visit it daily, others several times a week, but we all browse it in one way or another. Use this time wisely — subscribe to English-language pages, blogs, or learning communities. This way, you will regularly see the language in use in your news feed, read short texts, test your knowledge, and be inspired by motivational quotes — without feeling like you are “studying.”

8. Keep notes in English

Blogging can be an original and even potentially useful solution. If you have something to say to the world, write about it in English. This is not only writing practice, but also an opportunity to share your thoughts with an audience.

If blogging seems difficult or uninteresting, start with a diary. It's convenient: you record important events and plans, and at the same time practice your written English. Regular writing helps to reinforce vocabulary and grammar without losing language skills.

Mistakes that prevent you from maintaining your level

Knowledge is often lost due to common mistakes that are actually quite easy to avoid:

Irregular practice.
Many people believe that once they have obtained their certificate, they can take a break. In reality, language skills quickly deteriorate without daily use. Speaking, writing, and listening skills are the first to weaken.
Refusal to correct mistakes.
Fear of making mistakes or embarrassment leads to mistakes becoming ingrained. By not correcting them, we actually reproduce incorrect structures, which lowers our level of language proficiency.
Too passive learning.
Watching TV shows or reading without active analysis is useful, but not enough. You need to combine passive and active learning: repeat, write down, speak, translate.
Lack of a system.
Many people study chaotically — reading once a week, writing something once a month. Without a plan, it is difficult to maintain the level of all language skills at the same time.
Underestimating the importance of writing practice.
People often focus on speaking and listening, forgetting about written English. But grammar and vocabulary are firmly reinforced through writing.

People often focus on speaking and listening, forgetting about written English. But grammar and vocabulary are firmly reinforced through writing.

A little practice every day, and English will become as natural to you as drinking your morning coffee. Keep the language light and playful: watch, listen, experiment with new things. Eventually, English will become a living, active skill that you can use confidently in any situation — from a business meeting to your dream vacation.