Language Learning | Blog | The Linguist on Language

13Feb

13 Feb 2018

Meaningful Language Learning Goals

The goal of fluency in a foreign language can often seem vague and elusive. It is not always clear what fluency means. Those who have not experienced the feeling of achieving fluency in another language doubt they can get there, and doubt they would know if they did. Learners often feel they are not making […]

07Feb

7 Feb 2018

Tips for Learning Russian

Learning Russian

I wanted give some important tips for learning Russian. First I'll explain about the writing system, then some interesting things to remember about Russian verbs of motion, aspects of verbs and cases.

30Jan

30 Jan 2018

How to Learn Any Language Effortlessly

Learning Techniques, Motivation

When I wrote my book The Linguist: A Personal Guide to Language Learning, I began with what I called ‘The Parable of the Crooked Tree’. The author of the parable was Zhuangzi, an early exponent of Taoism, a school of Chinese philosophy from over 2,000 years ago. I referred to Taoism on a number of occasions in my book. Zhuangzi’s basic principle in life was to follow what was natural, what [...]

23Jan

23 Jan 2018

Listening Comprehension: An Important Language Skill

Learning Techniques

I believe that listening comprehension is an important skill in language learning. That is what you should drive for first of all. If you develop good listening comprehension, the other skills will come, the speaking will come, even your grammar, your accuracy.

16Jan

16 Jan 2018

French for Beginners: What You Need to Know

Learning French

French was my first love when it comes to languages. In fact, there’s an expression in French: “On revient toujours a son premier amour." It means you always go back to your first love. I love French; I love all the languages that I learn, but I have a special affection for French. I highly recommend learning French for beginners. There’s a whole world that you can access so much better if [...]

09Jan

9 Jan 2018

Google Translate Doesn’t Work?

Learning Techniques

I hear all the time that Google Translate doesn’t work. It’s not accurate. It’s this and that. I think Google Translate is a tremendous resource and not only for language learners. It’s not 100% and it’s better for some languages than others, but I find it extremely useful.

02Jan

2 Jan 2018

How Can You Become Fluent in a Foreign Language?

Learning Techniques, Motivation

Can I become fluent in a foreign language? If your answer to this question is no, then you are best to stop trying. If you don't believe that you can reach the destination in your journey, why start? On the other hand, if you believe you can become fluent in a foreign language, you are well on your way to achieving fluency.

26Dec

International conferences in English, whether in Germany, Portugal or Italy, and now the music has been obliterated. It is time to fight this pollution!

26 Dec 2017

How to Learn Vocabulary Fast

Learning Techniques

The most important task in language learning, in my opinion, is the acquisition of vocabulary. If we have enough words, we can make sense of what we’re reading or listening to and we can somehow express ourselves. Vocabulary is much more important than grammar. The grammar you acquire gradually as you become familiar with the language, […]

19Dec

19 Dec 2017

Learn Arabic by Focussing on Simple Tasks

Learning Arabic, Learning Techniques

I love learning languages. When I start a new language I am motivated by the sense of anticipation that after a period of sustained effort, I will be able to connect with a new culture, and express myself in a new language. I am probably more motivated than most people. Nevertheless, there are many moments […]

12Dec

12 Dec 2017

Create Your Own Dictionary

Learning Techniques

When it comes to learning a new language, some learners like dictionaries. They read them. They treasure them. They worry about getting the best possible dictionary. I don’t like using dictionaries. Using them is like one-way love.