Learning languages opens up so many possibilities. It may help you get a job or an internship, and it also comes in handy if you want to travel. It saves the hassle and awkwardness of not knowing how to communicate with those around you. But, I’ll be honest, it’s definitely easier said than done. You have to learn conjugation, vocabulary, grammar, etc. Though it may be overwhelming, learning a new language is extremely rewarding. That is why I’m going to share four helpful tips that will help you pick up new languages quicker.
Tip #1: Listen to music
The first tip is to listen to music in that language! Not only does it give you an insight into that language’s culture, but it’s something that you can do on the go if you don’t have a ton of time. You can find many playlists for different artists and play them while doing other activities. You might find an artist or a band that you really like, so you’ll listen to them because you genuinely want to. Listening to music can help you with pronunciation, and the more you listen, the more proficient you’ll become!
Tip #2: Watch movies/TV shows
This tip is particularly useful if you want to improve your pronunciation. Watching shows or movies in a target language is a great way of picking up new phrases and words. Even if you’re just using that show as background noise, it will help you understand a native speaker’s handling of that particular language. You’ll be able to understand different phrases and words a lot better than if you’re just seeing them. Of course, if you’re not confident with how proficient you are, you can always add English subtitles, but the whole point is that you’ll get better as you watch more and more of that TV show or movie.
Tip #3: Find ways to incorporate the language into your life
This tip can take a couple of different forms. I’d suggest that you find someone who really knows the language and ask them to help you practice. It could be really intimidating at first, but the whole point is to get more comfortable in what you’re doing. You don’t have to be perfect at it, and the other person certainly isn’t expecting you to be. The main idea is to get some practice! Another thing you can do is learn about the cuisine and get familiar with the common ingredients and recipes. It will give you an insight into a different area within that language, both in terms of vocabulary and culture.
Tip #4: Read books
This tip is particularly helpful if you want to become really good at writing in a different language. Seeing new phrases, verbs, and words on a page directly in front of you can be very useful when you’re learning a new language, especially if you’re looking to improve verb conjugation. By looking at how different verbs are conjugated in different tenses, you’ll be able to use them yourself. However, if you feel like you’re not at that level, you could always read short stories and articles instead.
Needless to say, there are many different ways to learn languages and no method is distinctly correct. Rather, learning a new language is a matter of consistency and dedication. There is a lot of work that needs to be done if you’re looking to get better, but as I said earlier, it will be worth it in the end.