When speaking a second language, do you have to convert it?

Markus   Sat Oct 24, 2009 1:58 am GMT
So, basically, I have been taking french classes for a few years, and I've noticed that even though some phrases and words just sort of flow out without having to think, I still have to convert many parts of the language from english to french. So, I was wondering, when you learn a second language will you always have to sort of mentally convert it from your native tongue to the new language, or does it eventually end up just coming out as naturally as the native tongue would, without having to really think about what you're saying or what the other person is saying, and, if so, about how long does it take for this to happen?
tarikur   Sat Oct 24, 2009 3:34 am GMT
If you have to convert, it means that you are not fluent in the new language.

I speak 2 languages. When I speak them, words and phases come naturally; I do not have to think about it.
boyntonville bumpkin   Sat Oct 24, 2009 3:51 am GMT
In input mode, I don't think the conversion/transltion method will work at all. It's far too slow, and takes too much mental energy.