Language serves understanding. In our everyday lives, we usually don’t have to worry about whether someone understands us or not. But when we travel to other countries, there is usually no longer smooth communication. However, by learning foreign languages, you can communicate with the locals, which can be enormously helpful. For example, you will learn about important information and insider tips. Learning foreign languages can be challenging, and we want to help you overcome it with this post.
Tip 1: A good reason
If we want to learn a language, we need a motivation to do so, a reason, something that keeps us going. Think about why you want to master the foreign language. Do you have a dream of traveling to a certain country and therefore want to learn the language? Your new partner or parts of your family speak a different mother tongue than you?
Tip 2: Combine language learning with everyday life
Learning doesn’t mean sitting down at your desk and cramming. For example, if you regularly sit on the train, turn on a podcast in the language. This will also give you a feel for the language and learn the pronunciation. Even if the weekly house cleaning is due, you will listen to an audio book in the language.
Another option is to download an app such as Babbel, which can be used to learn languages. Whether iOS or Android, you can practice foreign languages online with both operating systems. Apps are certainly more practical than index cards, because we always have our smartphone with us.
It is also important to use the language when you are alone. Tell yourself things. Do you like to write a diary? Try it in another language.
The more often the language surrounds us, the faster we master it.
Tip 3: No monotony when learning
It is most effective when we learn with more than one sense. We all know flashcards from school, but how about having pictures on them instead of words? Another help is mnemonics. Learning vocabulary can suck, make connections that help you remember words better. Search for similar words in your language.
Tip 4: The alphabet
The alphabet is fundamental to any language. We are taught all the letters directly in the first grade, because our language is based on them. Especially in languages that use a different alphabet than ours, it is necessary to master the letters. Regular practice and application is important, and here too you can work with pictures.
Tip 5: Learn with media
You can also learn through books and films. There are many reasons to read books and it is equally beneficial to read a book in the original. You can simply set the film to the desired language, where you can even add subtitles. Another idea is to listen to music in the respective language, if you feel like it, you can even sing along.
Tip 6: Look for a tandem partner
What better way to learn than from someone who has the language you want to learn as their first language? The practical thing about a tandem partner is that you benefit from each other. If you have any questions, you can simply contact him. Meetings are not always necessary, and talking to the person on the phone or video calls also helps to get to know the language and culture. The prerequisite is that you get along well and enjoy talking to each other.
Tip 7: Mistakes are human
Everyone starts small. Especially in the beginning, mistakes often creep in, but the more you practice, the better you get. You should start speaking the language as early as possible. Keep at it!
Learning a foreign language is not a piece of cake, but with effort and regularity anyone can do it. Don’t give up because it’s going to be difficult! At some point, you look back on your process and realize how much you have actually achieved.
