How important are definite articles in casual conversation?

Question

To native speakers and other fluent Spanish speakers: I am a beginning Spanish speaker but I am progressing at a good rate. I am able to hold casual conversations fairly well but sometimes find myself using the incorrect definite article and/or masculine/ feminine forms of certain words when I get in a hurry. How important is it to get definite articles and masculine/feminine forms of words correct in casual conversation. While I'm sure its obvious, I try to make sure I let the person that I am talking to know that I am just learning Spanish. Thanks for your input.

Answer 1

I do not think that ordinary Spanish speakers would hold it against you or misunderstand you in usual cases with casual talk. If you are trying to learn it, it can be held against you.

Answer 2

I find fellow students of the language are much quicker to correct my errors than are native speakers. Here in Nicaragua the natives seem to appreciate the fact that I am trying to learn, and are very patient and helpful. They do sometimes have to try very hard not to laugh.