My 3-Step Comprehension-Based Language Learning Routine
“They seek him here, they seek him there…” That old refrain from The Scarlet Pimpernel sums up my approach to language learning. In everything I do, I seek words and structures. I…
All the Tricks and Tips You Need for Learning Spanish
I think Spanish is one of the most attractive languages to learn. We can all be motivated to learn a specific language like Mongolian or Finnish because we have a friend or a particular interest. Spanish is different: there are a number of real big advantages to learning Spanish.
The Best Techniques for Each Stage of Language Learning
Language learning is a long journey, but it’s also a dynamic one. Your resources, priorities, and routines should change as you progress. Beginners, intermediates, and advanced learners all benefit from different kinds…
Reaching Conversational Level in a New Language
Conversation implies a two-way exchange of language. Therefore, reaching a conversational level implies quite a high level of comprehension of the language so that we can understand what is being said to us. That means in order to converse properly we need to prepare ourselves.
A Guide to French Pronunciation
TL;DR Summary Listen first. Let your ears adjust to French sounds before obsessing over perfect pronunciation. Focus especially on: Practice by listening, repeating, recording yourself, and gradually combining those features. Over time,…
How to Become a Polyglot
Part of becoming a polyglot is accepting that you’re going to be less than perfect. That means you’re going to speak with mistakes. Your pronunciation may not be perfect, but you have this sense of achievement and the intellectual stimulus of discovering a new world, yet another new world with all of the people, and as you learn another language, then the people of that language come alive, the history comes alive.
Learn a Language in a Month: Is It Possible?
TL;DR Summary You can’t truly learn a language in one month — not in the sense of fluency. What you can do is make significant progress if you pour in massive exposure…
Should Kids Learn their Heritage Language?
TL;DR Summary Kids learn their heritage language best when it’s driven by interest, not pressure. Forcing it often breeds resistance. Instead, foster a warm, low-stress environment where the language is meaningful, fun,…
Why LingQ is the Best Language Learning App
TL;DR Summary LingQ wins because it centers around meaningful input — letting you read and listen to real, interesting content from Day one rather than forcing you through boring drills. It also…
3 Stages of Second Language Acquisition
TL;DR Summary When we learn a second language, we move through stages that reflect our growing familiarity with it — not a fixed timeline. First, we connect with the sounds and rhythms…
