20 Tips For Learning Languages As An Adult, According to Polyglots
So, You Want To Learn A Language?
Learning a new language as an adult can seem like a daunting task, especially if you grew up speaking only one. However, mastering a language is entirely possible at any age with the right amount of determination. Here are 20 tips for learning languages as an adult based on the most popular advice from polyglots.
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1. Start By Learning Basic Words and Phrases
A good starting point is to think about words and phrases you would use on a day-to-day basis. Translate them into your desired language and practice saying them until you feel you've nailed the pronunciation.
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2. Use Language-Learning Apps
It's not just Duolingo, there's a plethora of language-learning apps out there available to help you learn. Pick the one that works best for you and that you'll actually use.
3. Consume Media In That Language
Even before you can understand them, watching TV shows and movies, and listening to music and podcasts in your desired language will do wonders for familiarizing yourself with the pronunciation. You'll be surprised how many words you naturally pick up based on context.
4. Read Books In That Language
Reading does wonders for your comprehension and vocabulary. Take your time reading and don't be afraid to mark up your book with notes and translations. Children's picture books are a good place to start.
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5. Immerse Yourself
Surround yourself in the language and culture as much as you can to grow accustomed to hearing it. Travelling to a destination where that language is spoken is ideal, but if that's not possible for you, immersing yourself in audio spoken in that language is a great alternative.
6. One-On-One Tutoring
One of the best ways to learn a language is with a one-on-one tutor. It's superior to a larger class because you are wholly responsible for answering questions; no hiding behind a teacher's pet! You can book reasonably-priced sessions on apps like Preply.
7. Create a Vocabulary Mind Map
Think of a scenario like shopping or ordering food. Then think of phrases you would need in such a situation and write them down. Then translate them and try to memorize them so you would be able to communicate effectively in your chosen scenario.
8. Speak At Every Opportunity
Even if you don't know very much, speak in your desired language at every opportunity. It's okay to stumble or draw a blank, it's still absolutely the best way to learn.
9. Embrace Mistakes
It's completely normal and expected to make mistakes when you're learning a new language; don't get discouraged. Make note of your flubs and take them as a learning opportunity.
10. Stay Consistent
Even if it's just 10 or 15 minutes a day, it's so important to maintain a daily habit of learning. This keeps the language fresh in your mind.
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11. Label Things in Your Home
Using sticky notes, label everything in your house in your desired language. Every time you use that item, read the name aloud to really hammer in the pronounciation.
12. Join Communities
Another great way to learn the language is to get involved in the local community that speaks it. Not only will you have plenty of opportunities to practice with native speakers, but you'll also get exposed to the culture.
13. Write In That Language
Like reading, writing is a great way to put into use what you've learned. Write journal entries in your desired language or, better yet, get a penpal.
14. Set Specific Goals
Setting clear goals can help you stay on track and maintain motivation. It can be something like completing a book or maintaining a conversation for a certain length of time by a certain date. Celebrate your milestones, no matter how big or small.
15. Put In The Time and Effort
No one said learning a language was going to be easy. Be prepared to do the work and devote a lot of hours to the process.
16. Study Grammar
An inevitability of learning languages is grammar studies. Unfortunately, there's no short cut for this. You simply have to put your head down and memorize the rules.
17. Celebrate Small Victories
If you find yourself maintaining a conversation or understanding the words of a podcast that you previously couldn't, this is cause for celebration. Even if it's just a small pat on the back, let yourself have a moment to bask in satisfaction.
18. Have Fun In the Process
The aspect that sets most polyglots apart is they actually enjoy learning languages. Each time they learn a new word or phrase, they're excited. Try to channel that energy because if you can start to enjoy it, you'll have a better time and feel more motivated.
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19. Have Patience
Learning a language takes time, even for polyglots and linguists. Expect to spend years intensely working on it before becoming fluent and remember to be patient with yourself and enjoy the journey.
20. Shadow Conversations
If you hear a conversation in your desired language happening, just listen, without being creepy of course. Take note of the intonation and pronunciation and feel free to join in at any point.
