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Curiosity piqued, you find yourself wondering: how long does it take to learn a language? Embarking on a linguistic odyssey may seem daunting, but fret not! We’ve got you covered.
Learning a language is no walk in the park. In fact, it requires unwavering commitment and perseverance. Months may turn into years before fluency graces your tips.
In this comprehensive article, we address the burning questions that plaque your mind when diving headfirst into linguistic realms. Without further ado, let’s get into it.
FAQs: “How Long Does It Take to Learn a Language?” and More
Why does it take so long to learn a language?
Diving into the realm of a second language can be a puzzling endeavor, no doubt about it. As the years pass, the path to mastery becomes longer and winding.
A mind-boggling study, showcased in the esteemed Cognition journal of 2018, dropped a bombshell: achieving native-like fluency in a second language is a Herculean feat if you start too late.[1]
But don’t let this fact scares you. While fluency may not be guaranteed, hope lingers. Believe it or not, the adult brain is a champ at acquiring new tongues! So gear up, engage in captivating conversations with native speakers, and behold as your conversational finesse reaches new heights.
How many hours a day should I study a foreign language?
Let’s face it, we’re all caught up in the whirlwind of busyness, and yes, that includes you. It’s no surprise that many folks blame their jam-packed schedules for not mastering a language. But hey, here’s a newsflash: time is no longer an excuse.
Sure, the U.S. Department of State’s Foreign Service Institute claims it takes a whopping 2,400 hours to become fluent.[2] But in reality, you don’t need to devote endless hours each day to achieve linguistic prowess. The sweet spot? Just one hour, if you can spare it.
Nevertheless, even a mere 20 minutes a day is enough to make progress. When you think about it, setting language goals is like venturing into an exciting project. Break it down into manageable steps, and voila! You’ll be amazed at how tracking your progress fuels motivation.
How many hours of listening to learn a language?
Picture this: while honing your language skills, you diligently focus on speaking, pouring countless hours into mastering the art of verbal communication. But here’s the thing—listening, my friends, is the unsung hero of language acquisition!
Surprisingly, a groundbreaking study published in the Journal of Language Teaching and Research (2011) revealed an eye-opening truth. During communication, a whopping 40-50% of our time is spent listening.[3] That means dedicating half of your language learning journey to honing your listening prowess is paramount.
So, where to begin? Start by indulging in media you enjoy in your native tongue. Sports fanatics, rejoice! Tuning in to a soccer podcast, for instance, allows you to embrace the joy of listening while immersing yourself in what you love.
How long does it take to learn Portuguese?
Setting foot on the captivating path of learning Portuguese opens up an incredible adventure, where every step leads to a world of fulfillment. With Portuguese being spoken in diverse countries, delving into this language opens doors to an array of cultures and invites you to explore vast and captivating lands.
The burning question remains: how long does it take to conquer Portuguese? Alas, there’s no magic formula. You’ve discovered that language learning is a complex endeavor, unique to each individual, influenced by factors such as your native tongue, previous language experiences, learning methods, and mindset.
According to the FSI’s insights, allocating approximately 575 to 600 hours to learn Portuguese is the norm.[4] Yet, remember this: quality triumphs over quantity. So, fear not, for the key lies in dedicated and purposeful study.
How long does it take to learn sign language?
Discovering the art of sign language requires a sprinkle of time, a dash of patience, and a generous serving of practice. Sign language possesses its own captivating grammar and syntax, distinct from spoken languages around the globe. In fact, it’s recognized as a foreign language in numerous countries worldwide.
Thus, the duration of your sign language journey hinges upon your grasp of new concepts and the investment of time and effort you commit to this fascinating subject. Devoting ample time and unwavering dedication usually results in swifter progress.
However, remember that everyone learns at their own pace, so some may require more time than others. While mastering sign language can take anywhere from three months to three years, achieving true fluency demands consistent practice and devoted study over the years.
If you encounter challenges along the way, don’t give up! Stay committed, and you’ll witness the gradual ease that accompanies learning sign language.
How long does it take to learn a new language on Duolingo?
If you’re ready to learn a new language, try Duolingo. It’s perfect if you already know a bit of another language but needs a little boost. But if you prefer a more traditional approach, like using software or taking a local class, that’s cool too.
The time it takes to learn a new language with Duolingo varies based on a few things: how much time you spend on the app, how familiar you are with the language, and how good you are at learning languages.
But here’s the good news: many Duolingo users say they can become pretty fluent in 6-12 months if they stick with it.
Duolingo makes learning a language quick and easy. It’s user-friendly, fun, and effective. Remember, though, there are other ways to learn a language besides Duolingo. If you prefer a more traditional approach, go for it!
Final Words
And there you go, some commonly asked questions about learning a new language. If you’re excited about learning one, there are a few languages gaining popularity this year. You can explore our list of some of the best languages to learn in 2003 and choose the one that interests you the most.
Remember, it’s never too late to learn a new language. Learning is a lifelong journey, so best of luck to you!
