The best way to learn a new language

The benefits of learning a new language

Sure, learning an entirely new language can seem daunting. But, trust us, it can be hugely rewarding. On both a personal and professional level – and even on a biological level. Many studies have found that the complex mental processes involved in learning a new language increase problem solving abilities, as well as the capacity to focus and switch seamlessly between tasks.

On a personal and social level, learning a new language will broaden your cultural perspective, and levels of understanding and empathy. You may even start to see similarities, between cultures, where you thought there were differences.

With learning a new language also comes the opportunity to travel, and try out your new linguistic skills abroad. What’s more, learning a language is an inherently social experience. Not only will you likely make friends on your language course – but you’ll also be able to communicate and share with people you weren’t able to before.

Of course, many people learn a new language for professional reasons. A new language will open up opportunities in foreign countries – but it also stands out on any CV (even if the language isn’t required for the role). And it can help you demand a higher salary, too.

How long does it take to learn a new language

Naturally, learning a language doesn’t happen overnight. Even if you’ve heard that you can learn a language in your sleep, this isn’t quite the case. Some studies have shown that sleep-time language lessons can improve linguistic associations – but the real work happens while you’re awake. Besides, your brain needs sleep to consolidate all those new words and phrases.

We don’t recommend cramming, either. While short and intensive language courses can be useful, German psychologist and linguist Hermann Ebbinghaus advises ‘spaced repetition’. He suggests that you’re more likely to remember something if you look at it once a day for five days – rather than looking at something five times in the same day.

There are other factors that determine how long it takes to learn a language, too. Some individuals simply have a greater, immediate aptitude for learning a language – although everyone can, in time, achieve fluency. Immersion is also a key factor in learning a language – we’ll look at this more closely in the next section. And lastly, some languages are simply more difficult to learn. Chinese, for instance, although one of the most spoken languages in the world (largely due to population size) is especially hard for westerners to learn.

But, as they say, ‘practice makes perfect’ – and anybody can reach professional proficiency in any language, simply by not giving up.

Our 5 top tips for learning any language

Take a look at these 5 top tips – we’re confident they’ll be a great help on your language learning journey.

Tip #1: Set your language goals

Excited about diving into your new language? First things first, set yourself some language goals (we recommend short, medium, and long-term). This will help structure and direct your learning – besides, as with anything in life, if you want to succeed, it’s useful to have goals to aim for.

Tip #2: Learn everyday vocabulary

It may seem obvious, but sometimes people forget to start small – or get too technical too soon – when learning a language. Learning the most common root words (a word without a prefix or suffix) and everyday vocabulary is a great place to start. And it will help with having basic, everyday conversations.

Tip #3: Speak the language as often as possible

Recognising, understanding, and reproducing sounds is fundamental when learning a language. To achieve this, having real-life conversations is a must. And although it’s great to practise with a fellow student, we recommend connecting with a native speaker for the best, quickest results.

Tip #4: Immerse yourself in the language’s culture

This means consuming as many forms of relevant media, and other cultural experiences, as possible. Think: TV, film, radio, music (particularly lyrics), the news. This will expose you to everyday language and phrases – but it’ll also help you gain greater insight and understanding of the culture behind the language.

Tip #5: Visit the country

If you’re not learning your new language in its native country, visit as soon as you can. We guarantee speaking the language there will be a different experience – harder, certainly – but don’t be down-hearted. You could even think of it as a test, or a graduation of sorts. A crowning moment on your language journey.

Make a world of difference with WorldRemit

Remember, practice makes perfect. And don’t be too hard on yourself, or frightened to try and express yourself in your new language. Native people are nearly always impressed whenever anyone makes an effort to communicate in their language – even if it doesn’t make much sense. For more articles like this, head over to our blog. You’ll find a selection of pieces put together especially for people living and working abroad.

And, if you’re sending money to loved ones back home, we can help. At WorldRemit, our service is fast and reliable – and our low fees will save you money, too.

So, why not sign up to WorldRemit, and make a money transfer today?

The contents of this blog post do not constitute legal or financial advice and are provided for general information purposes only. If you require specific legal and / or financial advice you should contact a specialist lawyer or financial advisor. Information true at time of publishing.