How to Learn a Language

 How to Learn a Language

The reasons for learning a language are unique to each individual. It could be for professional growth, relocating to a new country, connecting with a partner, or simply as a hobby. The methods and challenges of learning a language also vary, but it’s not just about talent. How many times have you heard someone say, “I’m terrible at languages; I failed insert language at school”? What people often overlook is that motivation and circumstance play a crucial role in language learning. In school, priorities might be elsewhere, and learning a language isn't always by choice. But when we’re truly engaged in something we’re passionate about, it becomes less of a chore and more of an exciting journey. So, how do we learn a language efficiently? Let’s explore the key factors and how to use them to our advantage.

Linguistic Distance

Linguistic distance refers to how similar two languages are, not geographically but linguistically. For instance, Russia and Finland are neighbours, yet learning Russian won’t help much in learning Finnish. On the other hand, Dutch and Afrikaans, despite the vast geographic distance between Holland and South Africa, are very close linguistically, making it easier for speakers of one to learn the other. When people ask, “Which language is the easiest to learn?” the answer depends largely on how close that language is to their native tongue. For an English speaker, languages like Dutch or Afrikaans tend to be the easiest. French is relatively easy as well, sharing about 30% of its vocabulary with English, though its pronunciation and irregular verb conjugations can pose challenges. Spanish, on the other hand, is more regular and phonetic, making it slightly easier to grasp. In contrast, languages like Arabic, Hungarian, Mandarin, or Hindi will likely be more difficult due to greater linguistic distance. If you’re simply looking to explore bilingualism and are unsure which language to pick, starting with one close to your native tongue is a good strategy. However, practical use matters too. For an English speaker in the UK, learning Afrikaans might not be the most practical choice since you’d rarely encounter Afrikaners to practice with. European languages, given the proximity, offer more opportunities for regular practice.

Motivation

While the desire to learn a language is a great starting point, staying motivated requires a deeper connection to the language. Some linguists find joy in uncovering grammatical nuances and etymology (it can be fascinating, really!), but for most learners, having a meaningful reason is essential. Maybe you travel frequently to Spain, are captivated by Chinese history, or want to connect with your heritage. Finding a reason to anchor your learning process is key. It’ll keep you going when grammar exercises or vocabulary drills feel tedious. Dive into the culture surrounding the language—its history, politics, and the unique quirks of the people. This not only enriches your learning experience but also gives you more to talk about when practicing with native speakers. Showing an interest in the culture makes interactions with natives more engaging and enjoyable.

Grammar

Learning a language requires effort, no doubt, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. While apps are popular and can be fun, they often give the illusion of progress through colourful vocab exercises. However, genuinely good apps, like Wlingua, often come with a price, and without prior experience, it can be hard to tell which ones are effective. The best way to begin is by studying basic grammar through books or online resources—not solely relying on apps. You can easily find beginner grammar guides with a quick Google search, like ‘beginner Swedish grammar,’ which will yield plenty of useful results. If you prefer books, look for titles specifically aimed at beginners, like A Beginner’s Guide to French Grammar, as they usually offer exercises and break things down in a simple way. Start slowly, and don’t push yourself too hard. Learning the basic grammatical terms will also help you understand things more clearly as you progress.

Input & Output

Once you’re able to form basic sentences in your target language, it’s time to immerse yourself in the language through media and start practicing speaking and writing. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach here, so find what works best for you. If, like me, you don’t enjoy watching films or TV shows, you might prefer reading books in the language. However, listening comprehension is crucial, and there are many language-learning YouTube channels where content creators speak slowly and clearly, often covering topics that might interest you. The internet offers a wealth of resources for listening practice. As for speaking, if traveling to a country where your target language is spoken isn’t an option, platforms like Discord offer groups where you can practice with others immediately. Don’t let a few unkind individuals discourage you—unfortunately, they exist everywhere. Also, check if there are language exchange meetups in your area; these are fantastic opportunities to make friends and practice.

Consistency & Effort

Establish a routine that suits you. If you thrive on structure and consistency, set aside a regular time each day to study, maybe even consider hiring a tutor. If that feels too rigid and drains the joy from the process, learn at your own pace in ways that keep the experience enjoyable. Don’t force yourself into a method that makes you dread studying, and remember, it’s okay to take breaks when you feel burned out or unmotivated. Many language learners find that after a hiatus, they come back stronger. Above all, believe in your ability to learn. Many more people are capable of becoming multilingual than they think—it just takes dedication, consistency, and a bit of passion. At TargetLang, we consider all these factors when helping you along your language-learning journey!