FFXI is very different. That is strictly a turn based, stat-based RPG. You click 'attack' and your character will automatically swing their weapon at it by default without any further input from you, and your distance from your target doesn't even matter whether or not you hit.

Monster Hunter is an action game.

The sword and shield is indeed faster than most other weapons. That and the Dual Swords attack the fastest, but even with those weapons there is a certain commitment to the attack once you start it. It's not easy/possible to change the direction of your attack once you start swinging (as slightly more intelligent enemies will have ways of dodging). Even though most weapons allow you to dodge roll out of their animation, that's designed to keep you alive rather than lining up damage.

All of the enemies have patterns to them, so once you learn that it makes it easier for you to predict where you should be to either make an attack or avoid one. It's not at all hard, but it definitely takes some patience at the start.

The first time you smack a Giaprey out of its mid-air pounce because you timed it just right will be awesome.