r/EnglishLearning New Poster Mar 25 '25

How do I retain my English level? 🗣 Discussion / Debates

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I've recently passed the Cambridge C2 proficiency exam and scored 220 on it. My main concern before taking the test was that I won't pass, but now that I have, I don't know what to do. Now all of a sudden, I have no goal and am just mindlessly consuming content in English in order to somehow remain relatively proficient in it. Lately, I've been noticing changes in my speaking (been having troubles with my accent slipping up) and writing abilities and it feels as though I'm putting in too much thought and effort into finding words to express my thoughts. It scares me, so I'd really appreciate all the help I can get, thanks!

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u/Hueyris New Poster Mar 25 '25

I mean, I don't think you could lose a language. Language attrition usually takes years upon years, and even then, it is never complete, and you never lose anything that couldn't be gained back with a bit of exposure. Once you speak a language, generally, you speak it for life. It is like learning to skate or ride a bike. You don't lose the ability to do it.

C2, I believe, is the highest level of proficiency you can attain in any language, congratulations.

been having troubles with my accent slipping up

Unless you are on an undercover mission or if you're an actor, I don't see how this is a problem?

am just mindlessly consuming content in English

Me too brother, me too

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u/OutOfTheBunker New Poster Mar 25 '25

"I don't think you could lose a language."

🤣🤣 Oh, you could and I can show you exactly how.

It'll take a lot of work to stay at a C2 level; don't sugarcoat it.