Language

Though Ireland became a predominantly English speaking country around the turn of the 19th century, the Irish made the English language their own by having Irish words and phrases quickly evolve into the language. This article will outline the top 50 most common Irish slang words and expressions, their meanings, and examples of how they are used. Use some of these on your next trip to Ireland and you’ll convince the locals that you’re one of their own!

__[The Tandem app](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u) connects language learners with native speakers all over the world for free. With millions of members, Tandem is the largest global language learning community out there. Practice speaking 300+ languages, including 12 sign languages, by chatting via text, audio messages, and video calling.__

## 50 Most Common Irish Slang Words and Phrases

__1. Craic__

I think this term has made it across global borders now at this stage. For those who haven’t come across this term before though, “Craic” is Irish slang for fun. For example, “The craic was mighty last night.”

Since “Craic” is so important to the everyday life of the Irish, “Minus craic” is used to mean that something wasn’t just no fun, but negative fun… the worst!

__2. Dryshite__

Speaking of minus craic, “Dryshite” is a term used to refer to someone who is boring and no fun. This is a pretty big insult in Ireland, nobody wants to be a dryshite.

__3. Gas__

No, we don’t mean the fuel. “Gas” in Irish slang means funny. It can refer to a person, “He’s gas!” or a situation “That’s gas!” It can also be used to depict shock or disbelief. For example, “Jesus, that’s gas! I wouldn’t have thought that now.”

![fun-irish-slang](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/5Q3PESOYtwEMNrh36vn1j3/273b3b99150f1c57c0a7665f5f065706/fun-irish-slang.jpg)

__4. How’s she cuttin’?__

This phrase is generally used as a greeting and is another way of saying “How’s it going?” or “How are you?” This is quite a culchie expression (see no. 16).

__5. What’s the story?/What’s the craic?__

Similar to the one above, this expression is used as a greeting all over Ireland. It is Irish slang to mean “How are you?”

__6. Grand__

This is a hard one to explain because the meaning of “Grand” varies substantially. In the true Irish meaning of the word, “Grand” means ok, fine, or adequate. Depending on the tone of voice and situation of usage it could mean anything from very good to absolutely dreadful.

__7. Sure look__

This is a great little filler expression. If there is a moment of silence in a conversation between two Irish people, you can almost guarantee that “Sure look” will crop up. It almost has a meaning of something being out of your control. For example, “Sure look, this is it. There’s not much we can do.”

__8. I will yeah__

This is where you’ll notice the Irish sarcasm coming through. “I will yeah” means "I definitely will not." For example, in response to the question “Can you make me a sandwich?” you can expect the reply “I will yeah.”

__9. C’mere to me__

This is another filler expression in an Irish conversation. It is short for “Come here to me” and is used to mean "listen to me" or "I've got something to tell you." Often done without wanting a person to physically approach them in any way.

__10. Fair play__

This is another common Irish phrase that has transcended borders. It is the Irish way of saying “Well done.” If anyone has done even a remotely good job or achieved something, then the Irish praise comes in the form of “Fair play.”

__11. G’way outta that__

This one can have a few meanings. It can be an exclamation of disbelief, a standard response when someone compliments you (the Irish clearly don't know how to take compliments) or have the equivalent meaning of "Don't be silly," or "It's no trouble." For example, "Will ye have a brandy?" "No thanks, don't be troubling yourself." "Ah g’way outta that, of course, ye will!"

__12. G’wan__

This is Irish slang for “Go on.” It’s used as an expression of enthusiasm or encouragement. This Irish phrase was also made famous by Mrs. Doyle from the Irish TV show ‘Father Ted’ with her famous line “Ahh, g'wan! G'wan, g'wan, g'wan g'wan!” (this can go on for some time).

__13. Delira and excira__

This is an Irish exclamation of happiness. It’s short for delighted and excited.

__14. Coddin’ ya__

This is a great one! “I’m only coddin’ ya” means “I’m only joking.”

__15. Acting the maggot__

To “act the maggot” means to fool and mess around. It is used towards both adults and children. For example, “Stop acting the maggot.”

__16. Culchie/Bogger__

A culchie or bogger is someone who lives in a remote part of Ireland or “down the country” as they say. Those living in Dublin tend to refer to anyone living outside of the capital as either one of these terms.

![culchie-bogger-irish-slang](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/7xos3dzrKas9Lyqv5LuaHC/ce32a3de849aeeff9181ccadcb7ec11f/culchie-bogger-irish-slang.jpg)

__17. Knackered__

This is an Irish word for being completely exhausted. For example, “I’m knackered after that.”

__18. Scuttered__

Ireland has a lot of terms for alcohol and drinking, as you can imagine. If you were scuttered last night, you were blind drunk. The Irish get very creative here and typically add “ed” to the end of practically any word to get across the same meaning e.g. buckled, locked, hammered, trollied, plastered, etc. Some of these also appear in [British slang](https://www.tandem.net/british-slang-words).

__19. Langers__

Another expression for being drunk. For example, “I was absolutely langers last night.” You might also hear “Langered” used which has the same meaning.

__20. On the lash__

This is a term for drinking in Ireland. For example, “I was on the lash last night.”

__21. "Naggins" and "Shoulders"__

You can’t be on the lash without a few naggins and shoulders. "Naggins" and "Shoulders" refer to the sizes of bottles of spirits, typically vodka. A shoulder will get you fairly scuttered, but a naggin is perfect for smuggling into a pub. However, we're not endorsing such bold behaviour.

__22. Scoops__

Nope, the Irish are not referring to ice-cream here. "A few scoops" refers to a few pints or a few drinks.

__23. Give it a lash__

Not to be confused with the previous lash. To “Give it a lash” means to give something a go. For example, “I haven’t made pizza from scratch before, but thought I’d give it a lash.”

__24. Fella__

This is Irish slang for a male of any age. For example, “Some fella said hello to me on the street.” It can also be used for your group of lad friends, “Me and the fellas went out last night.”

__25. Oul fella__

This is an Irish expression for an older man or your father. For example, “I was down in the pub with me oul fella.” 

__26. Yer one__

This refers to anyone who we don’t know. For example, “Yer one over there.”

__27. Cailín__

“Cailín” means “girl” in the Irish language. A lot of Irish people still use this word even when speaking in English. The plural, “Cailíní,” is also commonly used, for example, “I’m meeting up with the cailíní later on.”

__28. Now we’re suckin’ diesel__

One of our absolute favorite Irish phrases! It might sound completely bizarre to some (understandably), but this expression is used to mean making progress. For example, “I couldn’t motivate myself earlier but now we’re suckin’ diesel.”

![Irish-slang-words-farming](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/6jexhFlRFCIaHt2vk9BmxT/d3a166be4465f79b342d557c528ae021/Irish-slang-words-farming.jpg)

__29. Giving out__

If someone is “Giving out” they are complaining about something or going off on a rant. It also has a similar meaning of telling someone off. For example, “Me oul fella was giving out to me for cursing.”

__30. Effin’ and blindin’__

This is a gas one. “Effin’ and blindin’” means to curse and swear a lot. For example, “Yer one was effin’ and blindin’ at me.”

__31. Jesus, Mary, and Joseph__

Speaking of effin’ and blindin’, when it comes to blasphemy, there are no half measures in Ireland. As a historically religious country, when an Irish person deems it absolutely necessary to take the Lord’s name in vain, they use the entire holy family.

__32. Banjaxed__

This is another great one. “Banjaxed” is used to describe something that’s not working or is broken. For example, “The feckin’ car wouldn’t start this morning. The engine is banjaxed.”

__33. Manky__

“Manky” is an Irish expression to mean disgusting, dirty or rotten. It can refer to anything, but is commonly used to describe the weather in Ireland. For example, “It’s absolutely manky out.”

__34. Poxy__

Similar to the one above, “Poxy” is a term to describe something that's either not great or not working. It can also be used as a replacement of a curse word. For example, “I couldn’t get the poxy TV to work.”

__35. Eejit__

Meaning “idiot,” this can be a mild insult. For the meaning to reach its full insult potential, however, you need to add in the word “feckin’” beforehand and elongate that "eeeee" sound — “You feckin’ eeeeejit.”

__36. Tool__

This is a brilliant one. Another insult meaning “idiot,” it compares a person to a blunt object. 

__37. Spanner__

A variation of the general insult “Tool.” In this case, you're really just being more specific about the blunt object.

__38. Gombeen__

Another colourful term to describe an idiot in Ireland. It's all fun and games until someone drops the G-bomb.

__39. Yoke__

This is Irish slang for something that you can’t remember the name of, like how you would use the word “thingamajig.” For example, “Give us that yoke there.” It also has the equivalent meaning of “thing,” for example, “You’re a mad yoke.”

__40. Fierce__

“Jaysus, it’s fierce windy out there.” This is a common Irish phrase that you’d hear spoken. “Fierce” means very or extremely.

![Irish-slang-fierce](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/6NFkmrDysDsV8L7E0p5IPq/08cb560846efe54b7920ff04c81b17db/Irish-slang-fierce.jpg)

__41. Pure__

“It’s pure wet outside” would imply that there’s nothing but wet and rain out there. “Pure” is similar to “Fierce,” however, it would be on the more extreme side of the scale.

__42. Up to 90__

If someone is “Up to 90” then they are extremely busy. For example, “Mary, can you get the phone? I’m up to 90.”

__43. A bad dose__

This Irish phrase is used to describe a bad case of something. For example, “I got a fierce bad dose of the tummy bug last week.”

__44. In bits__

If you were out on the lash last night, your head might very well be in bits this morning. “In bits” is an expression to mean that something is in a bad way.

__45. In rag order__

Similar to the one above, for something to be in rag order it’s in a very bad condition. For example, “My head’s in rag order after those 12 pints.”

__46. Arseways__

This has us in stitches every time. To do something “Arseways” means to do it the wrong way. It also means for something to not turn out as you expected. For example, "We tried to roast the turkey but it went arseways."

__47. Minerals__

In general, this is what the Irish call soft drinks. However, really only one kind of soft drink is understood, that being the glorious 7Up. "Minerals" is a word particularly used by the older generation. If you're visiting your Irish grandparents they'll always offer you a mineral and will force feed you with it even if you decline.

__48. Spuds__

We can’t talk about Irish slang without mentioning potatoes! “Spuds” is another word for potatoes.

![potatoes-spuds-irish-slang](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/5ZKhJj49iLS2oTBtVxp7tX/5e16e76f610f8adce9016818a4132545/potatoes-spuds-irish-slang.jpg)

__49. Grá__

Speaking of spuds, “Grá” means “love” in the Irish language. A lot of Irish people still use this word even when speaking in English. It can be used in place of the word love or it also means passion or desire. For example, “I have a grá for sport.”

__50. Yonks__

It is Irish slang for a very long time. For example, “Jesus Mary, I haven’t seen you in yonks! What’s the craic?”


This article will outline the top 50 most common Irish slang words and phrases, their meanings, and examples of how they are used. You’ll convince the Irish locals that you’re one of their own!

Ireland-Irish-language

Top 50 Irish Slang Words and Phrases (From a Local)

The Slavic languages unite the Balkans, parts of central and eastern Europe, and the entirety of Russia. Slavic languages have a rich linguistic history and though Russian might be the first Slavic language to come to mind, there are many more that should be explored. What are the Slavic languages and which are the best to learn? Here’s everything you need to know so you can start learning a new foreign language!

__Your language learning journey will require some helpful tools and resources to gain fluency. That is why Tandem is here to help! With the [Tandem app](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u), we connect language learners to native speakers to help them speak any language, anywhere.__


## History of the Slavic languages

The Slavic languages are believed to have descended from Proto-Slavic which itself stems from Proto-Indo-European. Proto-Slavic was the common language of all Slavic people, or Slavs, as late as the 8th or 9th century A.D. However, the various Slavic varieties then shortly began to emerge as separate Slavic languages. 

Slavic languages are spoken by almost 400 million people mostly in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia (Siberia). They are divided into three subgroups: East, West, and South, which together account for more than 20 languages. The Slavic languages are typically marked by tricky pronunciations and by having a case system.

![Polish-Poland-Slavic-language](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/1drRSWpIaEbeARdP1btn9W/d7472396f3e730d7c39567c17a0564f4/Polish-Poland-Slavic-language.jpg)

##  List of the Slavic Languages

### East Slavic Languages

### Russian:

Russian is probably the first language you think of when it comes to the Slavic language family. Russian is spoken by 145 million people in Russia and a total of nearly 268 million people worldwide. This makes Russian top of the list as the most spoken language in Europe!

For a native English speaker, learning Russian can be a bit daunting considering a new writing system and the Cyrillic alphabet. However, Russian is a great language to learn for those particularly interested in literature, as Russian literature is some of the most acclaimed in the world.

### Ukrainian:

Ukrainian has 32.6 million native speakers in the Ukraine and over a further 2 million around the world. Ukrainian is most mutually intelligible with Belarusian but also has some mutual intelligibility with Russian. Polish has also heavily influenced the Ukrainian language, where some overlapping vocabulary can be noticed.

Ukrainian language learners will face challenges similar to those posed by other Slavic languages: a case system, tricky grammar rules, and some difficult pronunciations. However, many consider it to be a truly beautiful language.

### Belarusian:

Belarusian is spoken by over 2 million people in Belarus and another 300,000 around the world. Isn’t Belarus home to over 9 million people though? Well, that’s because 70% of the Belarusian population actually speak Russian.

Belarusian and Russian are fairly mutually intelligible and share similar grammatical structures, so communication in the country doesn't pose much of a challenge. Belarusian has three major dialects (Central Belarusan, Northeast Belarusan, and Southwest Belarusan) and uses the Cyrillic script. 

Due to the overlap between Belarusian, Russian, and Ukrainian, these languages are commonly learned together.

![Czech-Slavic-Language](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/2YmCVoI0oUyAlHUfvxCOWd/e0e0fac0d6cdeea7b8770074061186fd/Czech-Slavic-Language.jpg)

### West Slavic Languages

### Czech:

Czech is spoken by over 10 million people in the Czech Republic and nearly a further 3 million around the world. It is a popular Slavic language to learn as it uses the Latin alphabet. However, like most Slavic languages, its  tricky pronunciations, and the dreaded case system can pose quite a challenge. These obstacles probably don’t intimidate you though, if you’re already looking to learn a Slavic language!

### Slovak:

Slovak is spoken by 5 million people in Slovakia and more than 2 million more people around the world. The Slovak language uses the Latin alphabet and is closely related to Czech. Consequently, Czech and Slovak are commonly learned together.

### Polish:

There are over 37 million speakers of Polish within Poland and over a further 3 million speakers spread across the world. Polish is more specifically part of the Lechitic Family. Though it isn’t the only member of the Lechitic group, it’s certainly the most well known.

Polish is a language of interest for language learners because not only is it one of the most widely spoken Slavic languages but it also uses the Latin alphabet. This makes it a little less daunting for English speakers to start learning than other Slavic languages.

Other West Slavic languages include Lower Sorbian, Upper Sorbian, and Kashubian.

![Slavic-languages](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/32Jwdu4kDKgx3s32JzbyvS/06295402b4d8e5bd79a5822692d96ed8/Slavic-languages.jpg)

### South Slavic Languages

### Bulgarian:

There are over 7 million Bulgarian speakers in Bulgaria and 1 million more across the globe.

Bulgarian uses the old Proto-Slavic verb system and the Cyrillic alphabet which can be intimidating for some language learners. On the plus side, however, though Bulgarian technically has a case system, it does not use markings (endings) or infinitive verbs!

### Serbo-Croatian:

Serbo-Croatian is known as a pluricentric language with four mutually intelligible standard varieties, namely Serbian, Croatian, Bosnian, and Montenegrin. The individual forms are considered to be dialects of the same language, with the division between them being largely political. Serbo-Croatian is spoken by over 15 million people.

There are limited lexical and/or grammatical differences between the varieties however, one notable difference would be their use of the alphabet. Serbian, for example, uses both the Cyrillic and Latin alphabets. Bosnian mostly uses the Latin alphabet along with Croatian, and as the Montenegrin language develops, there’s a preference for the Latin alphabet.

![Slovene-Slavic-language](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/5A0M8MZtj3wMBgSMlAMWvO/a653de6eab17364e3d7be20a1c4abec9/Slovene-Slavic-language.jpg)

### Slovene:

Slovene or Slovenian is spoken by almost 2 million people in Slovenia and nearly a further 200,000 around the world. It is one of the newer Slavic languages, and one of the most diverse, owing to its wide array of different dialects. The number of Slovene dialects can, therefore, make it difficult for speakers to understand one another.

Though it possesses some difficult pronunciations, tricky grammar rules, and using the case system, Slovene still has its appeal with the language’s uniqueness setting it apart.

With all that being said...

### Which Slavic language is the best to learn?

If you’re looking to communicate with the most amount of people or have a love for literature, Russian is the best Slavic to learn. If you’re looking for the easiest Slavic language to learn, we would suggest Bulgarian with the lack of grammatical cases. The most beautiful Slavic language is Czech in our opinion, although this choice is, of course, very subjective. 

There you have it!

What are the Slavic languages and which are the best to learn? Here’s everything you need to know so you can start learning a new foreign language!

Bosnia-Slavic-language

What are the Slavic languages and which are the best to learn?

Today, the English language is the dominant lingua franca worldwide. However, this was not always the case.

Being able to speak French was essential in Europe between the 17th and 20th centuries and beyond that, for those who wanted to be regarded as well-educated. It was the language of politics, commerce, art, and literature.

French is, however, still an important language today. It is the **official language in 31 countries** and is spoken by around **300 million people** as a native and second language in the following parts of the world:

- Several European countries
- Many African countries
- Various islands in the South Pacific
- The Caribbean
- Canada

**French is a world language and has a growing number of native speakers.**

Whether it’s for your next vacation, to upskill in your career, for love, or because of your love for French literature— there are **plenty of reasons to learn French** or to get your rusty French language skills back on track!

Here are a few tips on how to **learn French for free!**

- [Learn French online: Seek and you shall find](#learnfrenchonlineseekandyoushallfind)
- [Learn French with apps: Which free apps are best for learning French?](#learnfrenchwithappswhichfreeappsarebestforlearningfrench?)
- [Learn French vocabulary: Tips, tricks, and free apps!](#learnfrenchvocabularytipstricksandfreeapps)
- [French for your holiday: The basics](#frenchforyourholidaythebasics)
- [Conclusion: The best tips to learn French basics quickly and for free!](#conclusionthebesttipstolearnfrenchbasicsquicklyandforfree)

<h2 id="learnfrenchonlineseekandyoushallfind">
  Learn French online: Seek and you shall find
</h2>

You can find an **infinite amount of native language level material on the internet for free**— from recipes and French newspapers to song lyrics and films with subtitles and vocabulary trainers and even complete language courses!

In order to really learn how to speak French, it’s a good start to acquire a few new words and then apply them consistently to your everyday life.

There are many methods to **learn French words and phrases**. The classic way is by having a vocabulary notebook. You don't have to go out and purchase one specifically, you can create one yourself (which is way more fun and creative) or have a place on your laptop, in the cloud or on your phone for your new vocab.

You can find more tips on learning French vocabulary on our [learn French online](https://www.tandem.net/learn-french-online) page and below in the section on [learning French vocabulary: tips, tricks, and free apps!](#learnfrenchvocabularytipstricksandfreeapps)


![women girl friends talking](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/6572TVydNQUEp8BdQSNrVG/a7daaa6e477e39c9177474addb7fe7d3/people-2575361_1920.jpg)

The most effective way to improve your French language skills is to **practice regularly with a native French speaker**, which is also an easy and free method.

Known as [language exchange](https://www.tandem.net/language-exchange), speaking with your tandem partner in English for half the time and French the other half is an efficient and effective learning method. Utilize that noticeboard at your university, in your city library, or in your local supermarket to find a tandem partner, or better yet, simply [download our free Tandem app](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u)!

<h2 id="learnfrenchwithappswhichfreeappsarebestforlearningfrench?">Learn French with apps: Which free apps are best for learning French?</h2>

Below are **four free apps** for Android and iOS that will help you make great progress with your French!

### **1. Tandem: Find French-speaking Tandem partners for free**

The **[Tandem app](http://www.tandem.net) is suitable for all learning levels**. Tandem enables you to find French-speaking Tandem partners and to communicate with them via text, audio messages, and video calling. Tandem is the largest global language learning community where you can find like-minded language learners who share your interests and hobbies.

![FR App Preview](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/4CsIJNy3kCADOUBLnxZFR2/0f69387c43c8cd4674e618a41d049085/app-preview-fr_2x.jpg)

Tandem makes it quick and easy to **find native French speakers, learning English and who fit your criteria of the ideal Tandem partner**. Just [download the app and get started](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u)!

### **2. Pas à pas: Intuitively learn the basics**

The app **“Pas à pas”** (English: “step by step”) was developed for **French beginners** by the language school [CAVILAM](http://www.cavilam.com) and [Alliance française](https://www.alliancefr.org/).

The app is entirely in French, but don’t worry as it’s completely intuitive. It guides you step by step by using different visuals which helps you to learn fundamental French words and phrases.

**Basic day-to-day situations** are covered including introducing yourself, shopping, buying a train ticket, etc.. This app is perfect for an entry or re-entry into the French language or for preparation for your holiday abroad!

### **3. Duolingo: Continuously improve your French with seriously addictive games**

Everybody is talking about **Duolingo** these days when it comes to language learning apps. A sympathetic green owl accompanies you from the beginning and throughout your French language learning journey.

Solve different **language problems**, gradually **unlock different language learning levels**, and try not to break your precious language learning streak.

The app is suitable for everyone who wants to pick up a new language whether you are studying at school, a professional at work, or recently retired. Duolingo is a lot of fun and you don’t even notice how quickly you are learning French.

![Man using tablet device](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/3qE96wc5GnX8Ae4YyyUbjo/a3c55316a9144dfee3f7953a5e7f20c2/man-1718099_1920.jpg)

*With language learning apps, you can learn French anywhere, anytime via your smartphone or tablet. Whether you’re on the subway, waiting on someone, traveling, or just in your pajamas at home!*

### **4. Français Authentique: Real authentic French for reading and listening**

Français Authentique is an app for those more **advanced French language learners**.

The app provides you with **authentic videos, audio, as well as PDF transcriptions in French**. It covers everything about the French language and Francophone culture, with important expressions and grammar being explained along the way.

The features of the app described above are free of charge, however, they do offer language courses that are available at a fee.

<h2 id="learnfrenchvocabularytipstricksandfreeapps">Learn French vocabulary: Tips, tricks, and free apps!</h2>

Learning French vocabulary for free is easier now than ever before thanks to the internet. Instead of drilling vocabulary into your brain, **more and more engaging and genuinely fun online vocabulary trainers** await you!

There is an abundance of vocabulary trainers in the **world of apps**. Below are three free apps with which you can quickly and easily build and expand your French vocabulary:

- The **Language course** vocabulary trainer is equipped with 10,000 words and phrases. Each word is accompanied by a picture and audio for pronunciation. The vocabulary is conveniently divided into different subject areas and you can create your own vocab list.

- **Memorion** is a classic flashcard app where you can acquire basic French vocabulary of around 1,000 words. Additionally, you can import your own vocabulary lists or download card stacks from the app.

- **Quizlet** is a general flashcard app that works as a community. This means that you can create your own flashcards or choose from those created by other Quizlet users. There are many flashcards available in French on different topics and levels of difficulty. It also works on the browser!

For more ideas on how to learn French vocabulary effectively, check out our [learn French online](https://www.tandem.net/learn-french-online) article.

<h2 id="frenchforyourholidaythebasics">French for your holiday: The basics</h2>

Below are the most important French words and phrases needed to survive your French vacation:

Tip: **“Merci”** and **“s’il vous plaît”** are words that are always appropriate in every situation!

### __In the hotel__

<table style="background-color:#ffffff">
  <thead>
    <tr>
      <th width="25%">English</th>
      <th width="25%">French</th>
      <th width="25%">English</th>
      <th width="25%">French</th>
    </tr>
  <thead>
  <tbody>
    <tr>
      <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
 I have a reservation.</cite></span></td>
      <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
 J’ai réservé.</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
 Do you have a room available?</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
 Avez-vous une chambre de libre?</cite></span></td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
  Can I pay with credit card?</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
  Puis-je payer par carte de crédit?</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
   How much does a night cost, please?</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
   Combien coûte une nuit, s’il vous plaît?</cite></span></td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
 When is breakfast served?</cite></span></td>
     <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
 Quand le petit-déjeuner sera-t-il servi?</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
 Does the room have…</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
 Est-ce que la chambre a…</cite></span></td>
    </tr>
      <tr>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
  Could you recommend a restaurant?</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
  Pouvez-vous recommander un restaurant?</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
   … a shower?</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
   … une douche?</cite></span></td>
      </tr>
      <tr>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
   Where are the toilets?</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
   Où sont les toilettes?</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
   … a toilet?</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
   … des toilettes?</cite></span></td>
      </tr>
    </tbody>
  </table>
      
### __Shops and food__ 
 
<table style="background-color:#ffffff">
  <thead>
    <tr>
      <th width="25%">English</th>
      <th width="25%">French</th>
      <th width="25%">English</th>
      <th width="25%">French</th>
    </tr>
  <thead>
  <tbody>
    <tr>
       <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
 Backery</cite></span></td>
       <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
 la boulangerie</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
 I would like …</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
 Je voudrais …</cite></span></td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
  Butchers</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
  la boucherie</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
  … a room.</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
  … une chambre.</cite></span></td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
   Supermarket</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
   le supermarché</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
   … a blanket.</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
   … une couverture.</cite></span></td>
  </tr> 
  <tr>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
   Market</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
   le marché</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
   … a towel.</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
   … une serviette de bain.</cite></span></td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
 Meat</cite></span></td>
     <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
 la viande</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
 Beer</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
 la bière</cite></span></td>
  </tr>
    <tr>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
  Fish</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
  le poisson</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
  Wine</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
  le vin</cite></span></td>
  </tr> 
    <tr>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
  Vegetables</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
  les légumes</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
  Water</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
  l’eau</cite></span></td>
  </tr>
  </tbody>
  </table>
  
### __At the restaurant__
  
  <table style="background-color:#ffffff">
  <thead>
    <tr>
      <th width="25%">English</th>
      <th width="25%">French</th>
      <th width="25%">English</th>
      <th width="25%">French</th>
    </tr>
  <thead>
  <tbody>
    <tr>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
 I would like…</cite></span></td>
     <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
 Je voudrais …</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
 The menu, please!</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
 La carte, s’il vous plaît!</cite></span></td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
  Anything else?</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
  Rien d’autre?</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
  Enjoy your meal!</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
  Bon appétit</cite></span></td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
   How much is it?</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
   C’est combien?</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-style:italic"><cite lang="en">
   The bill, please!</cite></span></td>
    <td><span style="font-weight:bold"><cite lang="fr">
   L'addition, s'il vous plaît!</cite></span></td>
  </tr>
  </tbody>
  </table>

YouTube is a great place to find compilations of more useful vocabulary and phrases for your holiday.

For example:

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/t-MPB1MKqGA" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

In the video above, the words and phrases are repeated with pauses in between, which makes it a great study aid and vocabulary trainer.

<h2 id="conclusionthebesttipstolearnfrenchbasicsquicklyandforfree">Conclusion: The best tips to learn French basics quickly and for free!</h2>

Language learning apps are great tools for language learning and there are so many of them to choose from.

- **Find an app that suits your learning method**. Consider how you learn best. Whether it’s listening to audio, watching videos, reading texts or with visuals, etc.

- **Use apps suitable for your language level**. If you are a beginner at learning French, for example, make sure that you use apps suitable beginners or with various learning levels available.

- **Feel free to use multiple apps**. The important thing is to enjoy the process! This will keep you motivated in the long term.

The most effective way to learn French is to **practice with native French speakers** from the beginning! Fear not if you don’t happen to live in France or a French-speaking country, this is where a **Tandem partner** comes in.

Learning with a Tandem partner is most effective because…

- Your mistakes can get **corrected immediately**.

- You can directly apply what you have learned. This is incredibly motivating and can instill a **great sense of achievement**.

- You acquire **authentic phrases and idiomatic expressions** without even realizing it.

Our free [Tandem app](http://www.tandem.net) makes it quick and easy to find native French speakers all over the world. Through language exchange, build your French language skills efficiently and effectively with your ideal Tandem partner.

Start now! Learn French for free (easy & online): Free apps. Basic French vocabulary for your vacation.

Palace Versailles France 

Learn French For Free— The Best Way to Learn French Quickly and Easily! 

Whether you enjoy following The Royal Family or binging shows like “Doctor Who” and “Peaky Blinders”, you’ve undoubtedly come across some weird and wonderful words that make up British English slang. 

Different areas within the same country, or even the same city, can have their own distinct slang. It's no surprise then that slang in the city of London alone, for example, can be so dissimilar, nevermind between different English speaking countries in general. So, let’s crack on and get to the list of British slang words innit!

![London-Taxi-British-Black-Cabs-English-Language](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/3Yt0feq2LBSWgq8Qb9CkG3/192152f9b36b0787b82e8a15f43de84b/London-Taxi-British-Black-Cabs-English-Language.jpg)

## 50 Must-Know British Slang Words and Phrases

**1. Bloke**

“Bloke” would be the American English equivalent of “dude.” It means a "man." 

**2. Lad**

In the same vein as “bloke,” “lad” is used, however, for boys and younger men.

**3. Bonkers**

Not necessarily intended in a bad way, "bonkers" means “mad” or “crazy.”

**4. Daft**

Used to mean if something is a bit stupid. It’s not particularly offensive, just mildly silly or foolish.

**5. To leg it**

This term means to run away, usually from some trouble! “I legged it from the police.”

**6. Trollied / Plastered**

These two words are British slang for drunk. One can get creative here and just add “ed” to the end of practically any object to get across the same meaning eg. hammered.

![Drunk-British-slang](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/4BP7qB5nG50tNjcvPEBOb3/0bc738b6a53db3adced545ddb3f0dacc/Drunk-British-slang.jpg)

**7. Quid**

This is British slang for British pounds. Some people also refer to it as “squid.”

**8. Dodgy**

Used to describe something or someone a little suspicious or questionable. For example, it can refer to food which tastes out of date or, when referring to a person, it can mean that they are a bit sketchy.

**9. Gobsmacked**

This is a truly British expression. “Gobsmacked” means to be utterly shocked or surprised beyond belief. “Gob” is a British expression for “mouth”.

**10. Bevvy**

This is short for the word “beverages,” usually alcoholic, most often beer.

**11. Knackered**

“Knackered” is used when someone is extremely tired. For example, “I was up studying all night last night, I’m absolutely knackered.”

**12. Lost the plot**

Someone who has “lost the plot” has become either angry, irrational, or is acting ridiculously. For example, "When my dad saw the mess I made, he lost the plot.”

**13. Taking the piss**

To “take the piss” means to mock, or generally be sarcastic towards something. For example, “Don’t be so serious, I was only taking the piss.” Not to be confused with “being pissed” (see below).

**14. Pissed**

The British sure do love their bevvys. This is another word for being drunk.

**15. Throwing a wobbly**

This British expression means to have a tantrum, however, tends to be used when describing tantrums thrown by adults, or people who should otherwise know better.

**16. A cuppa**

A cuppa is the shortened version of “a cup of tea.” You might hear the expression “fancy a cuppa?” quite often which is normally always referring to tea. The British do love their tea after all! 

![cuppa-British-slang-English-tea](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/2HxUi4fOEF2lz3WzunwIyi/2162e44f745ccb57b2f05b21fb3cc717/cuppa-British-slang-English-tea.jpg)

**17. Bloody**

As British slang, “bloody” places emphasis on a comment or another word. “That’s bloody brilliant!” for example. It is regarded as a mild expletive (swear word) but due to its common usage, it is generally acceptable. For example, “Oh bloody hell!”

**18. Can’t be arsed**

“Can’t be arsed” is a less polite version of saying that you can’t be bothered doing something. You might also see this abbreviated to “CBA” in [textspeak](https://www.tandem.net/understanding-textspeak).

**19. Chuffed**

If someone is "chuffed," they are very happy or delighted.

**20. Skint**

“Skint” is a British expression to mean being broke or having no money. Lacking “fivers” and “tenners” if you will (see below). 

**21. Fiver**

A five-pound note.

**22. Tenner**

A ten-pound note.

**23. Bog**

Not a muddy marsh, but a toilet. Oh, the British!

**24. Bog roll**

This is the paper you use in the bog, also known as “toilet paper.”

**25. Bird**

This is British slang for a girl or a woman.

![Bird-British-slang](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/11CXc8XrU2jt48FDVQd61D/c5b2b51dfd2372fb16be38098e74b365/Bird-British-slang.jpg)

**26. Mug**

“Mug” is more specifically London slang and is associated with the cockney accent. This is not a particularly nice word to describe someone as it means a fool or a stupid person.

**27. Chav**

This is a derogatory British slang word for a young hooligan who normally starts fights and makes trouble. “Chavs” are usually seen as lower class.

**28. Git**

“Git” is a British expression of insult. It describes a person, usually a man, who is very unpleasant, incompetent, or is an idiot.

**29. Cheeky**

This is used to describe someone’s behavior. If someone is being “cheeky,” they are being slightly rude or disrespectful but in a charming or amusing way. If you are a “cheeky” child, you are being brash or disrespectful and will probably get into trouble. 

**30. Slag off**

To “slag someone off” means to make fun of a person by verbally attacking them.

**31. Sod**

This British expression shares a similar meaning to “devil” or “thing” and is used to refer to a person, particularly a man. “You stupid sod!“ or “You lucky sod!” for example.

**32. Grafting**

"Grafting" is Scottish slang denoting a lad who is trying to get a girl to like him. A bit like flirting. You'll hear this one a lot on the British Love Island.

**33. Muppet**

Another great British insult. A “muppet” is a person who is ignorant and is generally a bit clueless.

**34. Pants**

In the UK, “pants” typically refers to underwear. However, “pants” can also be used as an equivalent of the word "bad" e.g. "That's pants!"

**35. Prat**

Yet another classic British slang term of insult. A “prat” is someone who is full of themselves and, almost invariably, stupid as well. With a hint of delusion.

**36. Nosh**

“That’s real good nosh!” “Nosh” is a British expression for "food."

![Nosh-British-slang-fish-and-chips](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/2lVY5lFh8hSzU3Vo4DLlpf/a8ff462e6d08513a4390feb94f3eee70/Nosh-British-slang-fish-and-chips-.jpg)

**37. Buzzin’**

“Buzzin’” can mean to be tipsy or slightly drunk, "I'm buzzin' after that pint." It’s also British slang for being excited or very happy, “I just booked my holiday to Spain, I’m absolutely buzzin’.”

**38. Pied off**

This is not a nice feeling. If you’ve been “pied off,” you’ve been rejected or shot down.

**39. Bev**

This one had most of us confused when we first heard it on Love Island 2019. “Bev” means a "handsome man."

**40. To crack on**

“To crack on with something” means to get started or continue with something. For example, “It’s getting late, I better crack on.”

**41. Gutted**

Meaning of being bitterly disappointed about something. “I was absolutely gutted when I heard the bad news.”

**42. Blimey**

“Blimey” is used as a way of expressing surprise at something, “Blimey, look at that!”

**43. Cock-up**

Get your mind out of the gutter! A “cock-up” is a mistake or failure, "I made a total cock-up of it."

**44. Kerfuffle**

If you’ve gotten yourself into a “kerfuffle,” you are generally involved in a disagreement with someone. “Kerfuffle” also has a similar meaning to “fuss.” For example, you can say, “It was all a big kerfuffle.”

**45. Innit**

This is the shortened and easier version of “isn’t it?” It’s seen as a general filler in a conversation or when seeking confirmation, eg. "Cool, innit." 

**46. Cracking**

When something or someone is “cracking” it means that the thing or the person is particularly good or excellent. For example, “He’s a cracking lad” or “That’s a cracking cuppa.” 

**47. Minging**

This is British slang for “disgusting” or “gross.”

**48. Proper**

“Proper” is used as an alternative to “very” or “extremely.” For example, “That’s proper good nosh, innit.”

**49. To nick**

This is a British expression to mean stealing. As in “I nicked these sweets from the shop.”

**50. Faffing around**

“Faffing around” is a very British pleasure. It means doing nothing particularly productive or taking unnecessary time to do something that should be relatively quick or straightforward.

![faffing-around-faff-British-slang](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/1ElWHQT6XWqdS5ibQWGwMm/735dd53f65fe8b671908881bbac8c3ad/faffing-around-faff-British-slang.jpg)

For your convenience and entertainment, we have put together a PDF document with a list of the British slang words and phrases which you can [download here](https://assets.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/2s6FvmTW534XpkbjUGvlhj/520b2ee8469ea9f27a9e0e61eda2eaff/British-English-slang-PDF.pdf).

## How to learn British slang

British slang is almost a language in itself. It might be hard to find material to study, as you won’t find it in your standard English textbooks, but if you look a little harder, there are plenty of sources out there. The key to becoming familiar with British slang is exposure. Here are some ideas on how to immerse yourself in the British English language.

We also have a pretty awesome article about [British stereotypes](https://www.tandem.net/british-stereotypes-fact-fiction), so feel free to check that out if you’re interested! 

**British TV shows**

“The Inbetweeners” is a popular British comedy that follows a group of four socially troubled friends growing from their teenage years into adulthood. They also have two movies released, one in 2012 and the other in 2014.

“The Royle Family” is an absolute classic. It’s a British sitcom produced for the BBC (the national broadcaster for the UK) and follows the everyday life of the average working-class family in Manchester. This one will have you in stitches and is great to watch with the family.

Some other great British TV shows include:

“Little Britain” – a British sketch comedy, that is also a great option to watch with the family.

“The Great British Bake Off” – a British television baking competition. Don’t take it to be another cookery program, however. “The Great British Bake Off” (GBBO for short) is riddled with light-hearted humor and is very fun to watch.

“Misfits” – a British science-fiction comedy-drama about a group of young offenders sentenced to work in a community service program, where they obtain supernatural powers.

**Speaking with a native speaker**

No one knows British slang better than the British! The fastest and most efficient way to learn British slang is to speak with a native speaker. Where can I find one of them? Enter Tandem...

The [Tandem Language Exchange app](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u) connects language learners with native speakers all over the world for free. With millions of members, Tandem is the largest global language learning community out there. Practice speaking 180+ languages, including 12 sign languages, by chatting via text, audio messages, and video calling.

![Tandem-Language-Exchange-App](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/7ezbOYu4YVkO5Wl2kTT3Ix/d049b2ef060bc7f1e7cdba0e1724c367/general_banner_2019.png)

**Listening to British music**

British slang appears often in British pop, rap, and hip hop. Listen to music from British artists and check out the lyrics of the songs. To get you started we have some suggestions for some great British artists below.

British rap and hip hop artists: Stormzy, Professor Green, Dizzee Rascal, and Wretch 32.

British pop artists: Ed Sheeran, Lily Allen, Jessie J, Rita Ora, Dua Lipa, and Sam Smith.

How confident do you feel with British English slang expressions? [Here is a quiz](https://play.howstuffworks.com/quiz/translate-british-slang-words) for you to test your knowledge. Good luck!

British slang can be so dissimilar even within areas of the same city. Stop faffing around and let’s crack on with the list of British slang words innit!

London-Britain-British-Slang-English-Language

British Slang Words: What Does It All Mean?

With our ever-increasing interconnected world, activities that were once only available locally, are now becoming accessible all over the world. The internet has made an abundance of information available at our disposal, with language learning being no exception. It doesn’t matter if you’ve decided to learn English, German, Spanish, French or even a sign language at home, we have all the resources here for you to make learning a language while you’re stuck at home easy and rewarding. Let’s hop straight to it then!

![home-pet-learning-languages](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/1RTpp2H9p7T5QPPv6Z8vYn/f966701b6c1799a8557827e8282e1f4d/home-pet-learning-languages.jpg)

## Our Lifehacks on Home Language Learning

When learning a new language, we sometimes have to take things back to basics. As a kid,  you naturally involve your first language in everything you do. As we mentioned in our [“How Long Does it Take to Learn a Language”](https://www.tandem.net/how-long-it-takes-to-learn-a-language) blog post, language exposure is a vital part of the language learning journey. When you watch TV, you’ve got language filling your ears or when you open the fridge, you’re met with brands, words, and ingredients. The best way to learn a language at home is to swap out your native language for your target language, everywhere you can. Here are some examples:

__Cook and eat your way to fluency:__

Who knew language learning at home could be so delicious? Getting busy in the kitchen not only teaches you new vocabulary and verbs, but a big part of cultural identity is food and its preparation. You can find countless recipes online in nearly every language possible with the majority of them being free. 

One tip here is to print them out or write the recipe down so you have a record of new words you've come across and learned. Even better, have a go-to cookbook in your target language which would make things a lot easier.

__Change the language of your devices:__

Change the language settings of your phone and all other devices to your target language. It might take some time to get used to the difference but you’ll get the hang of it soon enough.

__Sticky notes, sticky notes, and even more sticky notes:__

This lifehack is so super effective! Place sticky notes on the objects you use every day around your house and label them with their translation. This is a great way to drill in new vocabulary as you're being exposed to the translation multiple times a day! So now, your cup will be labeled “tasse”, "cupán", "kapu" or a differnet translation in another language.

__Wall of wisdom:__

When struggling with grammar or a tricky compound noun, this is a great hack to put all your confusion and thoughts in one place (and where you can’t avoid them). Write down the grammar rules you need to learn and plaster them onto a rather bare and sad looking wall to cheer you both up. This way, when you are brushing your teeth, blowdrying your hair, waiting for the kettle to boil, etc. you can go to your wall of wisdom and absorb its knowledge.

![brick-wall-language-learning](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/4b4XZylUy8FoSHwFd0EJFj/553bdeded08bd8ed981bd2f6428a46bf/brick-wall-language-learning.jpg)

__Become a multitasking master:__

If you’re going to be doing your weekly deep clean on your house or car why not make it a bit more enjoyable by listening to music or a podcast in the language you’re learning. If you are working out at home, follow the class instead in your target language because being shouted at in French sounds much nicer! 

## Must-have tools and things to have

__Wikipedia:__

Wikipedia as a tool for learning a language is an undiscovered treasure trove. You can access millions of articles in almost any language, so you can be confident that whatever you need to know, Wikipedia has the answer— and in your target language!

__A native speaker or two:__

Languages are a 'learn by doing' kind of thing. You’ll learn much faster by using and speaking the language especially with a native speaker. This particular method is at the heart of Tandem.

[The Tandem app](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u) is the most effective way to gain fluency in any language. With millions of members, Tandem is the largest global language learning community out there! Tandem lets you connect with native speakers all over the world, and practice speaking the language you're learning via text, voice notes, and video calling. Immerse yourself in the language and culture, and speak your way to fluency, for free!

![general banner 2019](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/7ezbOYu4YVkO5Wl2kTT3Ix/d049b2ef060bc7f1e7cdba0e1724c367/general_banner_2019.png)

__Chrome extensions:__

There are many chrome extensions out there that cover the many facets of learning a new language. If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out our article on ["Chrome Extensions for Language Learners."](https://www.tandem.net/language-learning-chrome-extensions)

__A VPN service:__

Many countries offer their national broadcasting networks online. However, since it’s intended for local citizens only, you’ll need to install a cheeky VPN to access the content. VPN stands for “virtual private network” and is used to hide your browser’s IP address by giving you an alternative one in a new location.
 
__YouTube:__

YouTube videos and tutorials will be your new best friend especially if you’re wanting to learn sign languages at home for free. YouTube hosts dozens of channels that give free lessons on how to sign the alphabet, common phrases, numbers, and more. Our favorite channels for learning American sign language (ASL) include [Dr. Bill Vicars](http://www.youtube.com/user/billvicars) and [Laura Berg Life](https://www.youtube.com/user/SmartHandsCA/featured).

## How to keep concentration while studying at home

__Find your dedicated study space:__

Create an appropriate study environment that suits you. We would recommend a clean, quiet space with minimal distractions and good lighting, but this may depend on what is most comfortable for you.

![study-space-learning-languages](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/60F9hpQCFThw5Isx8A11vP/d3e4bcffcc44f4ddeec7c835dc0180a6/study-space-learning-languages.jpg)

__Unplug from the world:__

Though our devices can be integral language learning tools, they can also be the main source of distraction. Turn off any notifications you might receive on your laptop or, dare we say it, uninstall those social apps. If you must have your phone in your study space, make sure it is turned off or on silent and turned upside down. It’s important to disconnect once in a while and focus as a single task at hand.

__Organize your learning materials:__

Some like to take a more basic approach while others take it to the next level and get color-coding systems involved. Either way, find a system that works for you and keep it organized. All your materials should be within arm's reach so you don't disrupt yourself from your study zone. This makes learning a language at home much less stressful and far more efficient.

__Find your routine:__

You may find yourself learning better in the morning or maybe you’re more productive in the evening. Maybe it’s more effective for you to study in a three-hour time block rather than 20 minutes every day. What’s important here is that you find a routine that's optimal for you. Try out different schedules to see when you’re most productive and then stick to it! Keeping up with your schedule builds a habit that makes you more likely to follow through with studying.

__Remember your language learning goal:__

Our last piece of advice is to not lose sight of why you started learning the language in the first place. There might be times where you don't want to study at all, the workload is too much to handle or you feel like you aren’t making any progress. These feelings are all completely normal and are part of the language learning journey. Keep focused on your goal and your motivation will follow.

Learning a language is no easy feat, especially when learning a language at home. However, by making your target language part of your daily existence, one day in the not-so-distant future, you will be mistaken for a native speaker.

It doesn’t matter if you’ve decided to learn English, German or even a sign language at home, we have all the resources here for you to make learning a language while you’re stuck at home easy and rewarding.

learning-languages-home

Learning A Language While You're Stuck At Home

We all know that you are probably not going to learn a language overnight, but how much of a commitment is it really? We are going to break down everything you need to know to answer the burning question of how long does it take to learn a language? First, we will tackle how many hours a day you should put into studying a foreign language. Then, we will present multiple tools and resources for you to optimize your time spent on learning a new language. Finally, we will tackle the most commonly used languages and rank them from easiest to hardest to master. 

So, you are thinking about learning a new language. An important question to ask yourself first, however, is why? Not only will this keep you focused and motivated, but it will also define the level you need to master in the language which takes different amounts of time. 

![clock-time-learning-languages](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/6Evxk4sa2XmmObhgjhGANo/c3ad7fec9672444f46edc13d45549682/clock-time-learning-languages.jpg)

## How many hours a day should I study a foreign language?

Can you learn a language in 15 minutes a day? Is it possible to learn a language in 2 years? Well...

We have seen from the [Common European Framework for Reference of Language (CEFRL) guidelines](https://www.tandem.net/language-levels-cefrl-guide) what fluency means, but *how* can you reach it?  When calculating how long it takes to reach fluency, it greatly depends on how you choose to learn a language. Are you planning on taking classes? Having a language exchange with a tandem partner? Using an app or online program? Or traveling to a country where the language is spoken through immersion? All of these have different time expectations for moving from beginner to becoming fluent.

Obviously, the more study the better. However, the key is to study smarter, not harder. Find a balance by complementing active study hours with integrating the language into your life in a way that’s effective, enjoyable and sustainable.

If we really want to put time on it, thirty minutes to an hour of real active study a day is a step in the right direction. This time should be used specifically dedicated to learning important new words, sentence structures, grammar rules, pronunciation, conjugation, etc. Depending on your language learning goals, this length may vary but it is important to have a manageable language learning schedule no matter what goal you may have. This is particularly important in the early stages of language learning.

Language exposure is anything that reinforces the language, without necessarily being focused on the learning aspect. This can include watching movies, reading the news, [listening to podcasts](https://www.tandem.net/top-free-podcasts-language-learners) and audiobooks, etc. This is quite a simple and almost effortless way to absorb your target language which also contributes to your study hours. Language exposure is oftentimes left out of the language learning schedule, but it’s a pivotal part of language learning nevertheless.

![studying-language-learning](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/7Meph8v2dHHWhgc19pCADX/fda6339c6bbc346f3861f4070d791a09/studying-language-learning.jpg)

##  Different Ways to Learn a New Language

Learning in a classroom environment is the classic, old school method of learning a foreign language. For good reason, it still works today and is one of the most effective ways to learn a language. It provides a good knowledge base while also covering all four aspects of language learning — reading, writing, speaking and listening. One massive advantage of this method is having a sense of accountability. Having deadlines and homework makes it much harder to procrastinate!

Although learning a language in a classroom is still a popular choice, there are other ways to study a language. Language learning apps, for example, are said to be revolutionizing language learning. Apps are great for optimizing your time spent on learning a language because you'll always have them at your fingertips and are either free or a more affordable option. However, this way of learning a language is intended to be used alongside other resources. 

We couldn’t not plug our very own language exchange app here...

Here at [Tandem](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u), we believe that speaking is the fastest way to fluency! That’s why we’ve developed an awesome free app that allows members to connect with native speakers all over the world and practice 160+ languages via text, audio message, and video call. With millions of members, Tandem is one of the largest language learning communities out there, so you are sure to find a language exchange partner that fits for you. 

If private lessons are more your thing, Tandem Tutors helps you master the language even quicker. Our Tutors are certified professionals who offer one-on-one lessons anytime, anywhere.

![general banner 2019](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/7ezbOYu4YVkO5Wl2kTT3Ix/d049b2ef060bc7f1e7cdba0e1724c367/general_banner_2019.png)

... End of plug ;)

As mentioned above, language exposure is a pivotal part of language learning. If you are a self-disciplined person and up for a challenge, you could potentially use this method as your primary learning resource. It’s important to realize, however, that it requires a lot more effort and engagement than it being used as a form of passive learning. 

If you decide to watch a foreign film, first of all make sure you have the subtitles turned on and secondly, make sure you have a notebook and pen beside you to note down new vocabulary and sentence structures. The same thing goes for reading a book or the news — you need to highlight, underline and have lots of sticky notes at the ready! Other ideas are to change your phone’s language to your target language and add some [chrome extensions for language learners](https://www.tandem.net/language-learning-chrome-extensions) to your browser. This method, naturally, prolongs the language learning journey but some may find it more enjoyable.

Complete immersion is another way to learn a language and the fastest way. This oftentimes involves traveling/moving to the native country, focusing on total cultural immersion and advancing your language skillset. This helps with learning the correct pronunciation and colloquial terms which you wouldn’t necessarily pick up in the classroom.

There are many platforms that help you learn languages online with many of them being quite reasonably priced, or even free. This can be an excellent way to learn the basics of a new language without committing a large amount of time or money. These types of resources are generally suited to beginners, as they generally only cover the basics, and tend to move at a slow pace.

![studying-online-learning-languages](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/5BHdXwoUTyKyQQST5Ix2Jw/44ea01d466ae6e3d9ca9f965ddd88c79/studying-online-learning-languages.jpg)

## How Long Does it Take to Learn a Language Fluently?

Some languages are easy to learn for native English speakers, and others are immensely difficult. Scripts, alphabets, conjugations, vocabulary, and more all factor into making a language easy or hard to learn. The United States Foreign Service Institute (FSI) divides the world’s languages into groups based on their difficulty for English speakers to learn and the approximate hours to reach fluency in them.

### The easiest languages to learn (23-24 weeks / 575- 600 hours)

These languages are closely related to English. There is a mix of Romance and Germanic languages in this category:

Afrikaans, Danish, Dutch, French, Italian, Norwegian, Portuguese, Romanian, Spanish, Swedish.

### Es ist schwer zu sagen (30 weeks / 750 hours)

There’s only one language in this category — German. German is closely related to English, however, there are quirky traits that bump it up in difficulty.

### Intermediate (36 weeks / 900 hours)

These languages have linguistic and/or cultural differences from English and are mainly spoken in Southeast Asia — Indonesian, Malaysian, Swahili, for example.

![talking-people-Vietnam-Asia-languages](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/WtcSIbwk4Fq8I5UYwP8vG/bfb6f79c66f3ef7c06a8e5baece20330/talking-people-Vietnam-Asia-languages.jpg)

### For people who like a challenge (44 weeks / 1100 hours)

These languages have significant linguistic and/or cultural differences from English. Here you’ll find the Slavic, Baltic and Uralic languages:

Bengali, Bosnian, Burmese, Bulgarian, Croatian, Czech, Greek, Hebrew, Icelandic, Khmer, Lao, Latvian, Macedonian, Nepali, Pashto, Polish, Russian, Sinhala, Tagalog, Turkish, Urdu, Uzbek, Xhosa, Zulu.

### The hardest languages to learn (88 weeks / 2,200 hours)

These languages are especially difficult for native English speakers, as they generally have completely unfamiliar scripts and cultural connections. These languages are most commonly spoken in Asia and the Middle East — Mandarin, Cantonese, Arabic, Korean. Included here is Japanese, which has a reputation for being the toughest in this group due to, in part, it’s multiple writing styles.

![Japanese-language-learning](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/2aRhoQBHNmRCfryadzQd7U/566b9821d9b66ccbe6fa4f92c1ba02fc/Japanese-language-learning.jpg)

As we have seen, there are no shortcuts for fluency, unfortunately! The only real way to expedite the process is to become as immersed as possible and dedicate yourself. If you are considering taking on the challenge of learning a new language, now is the time to start!

__With millions of members, Tandem is the largest global language learning community out there! With our Tandem app, you can connect with native speakers all over the world and practice languages via text, audio message, and video call. [Download Tandem today](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u) - it’s free!__

We are going to break down everything you need to know to answer the burning question of how long does it take to learn a language?

study-studying-learning-language-languages

How Long Does it Take to Learn a Language?

As one of the most spoken languages in the world, Spanish deserves a place on your list of not only one of the languages to learn, but pronunciations to perfect. A convincing Spanish accent isn't something that comes automatically when speaking the language – it has to be worked on deliberately. If you’re aiming to take your Spanish skills to the next level, read the following ways to improve your Spanish accent and to find innovative ways of speaking more like a native Spanish speaker – which is THE height of flattery for any language learner.

__Your language learning journey will require some helpful tools and resources to gain fluency. That is why Tandem is here to help! With the [Tandem app](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u), we connect language learners to native speakers to help them speak any language, anywhere.__

![girls-chatting-speaking-language-learning-spanish](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/5jgsGkKpvYbOL82HLqlv19/e9e5d4ff1d2418da8432c291a8175ce1/girls-chatting-speaking-language-learning-spanish.jpg)

## How do you pronounce the Spanish R?

There are actually two different but similar R sounds in Spanish. The tapped R sound is written with a single ‘r' and is pronounced somewhat similar to how we English speakers (typically with an American accent) pronounce the "tt" in <cite lang="en">*butter*</cite>, for example. 

The second is the rolled R, which has more of a trilled sound. It is mostly written with two "r’s", however, a single "r" can also be rolled if it's at the beginning of a word, for example, <cite lang="es">*Rojo*</cite>. To make the difference between the two sounds easier to remember, think of the words <cite lang="es">*pero*</cite> (but) and <cite lang="es">*perro*</cite> (dog)!

The most important thing to understand is that the Spanish R, whether trilled or tapped, is absolutely nothing like the English R sound.

## Is the Spanish V and B pronounced the same?

This can cause major confusion for some Spanish learners. So let’s set the record straight right here, right now.

The correct pronunciation of the letter V (la uve) in Spanish is identical to that of B (la be). So the short answer to the question above is YES. These letters have two separate sounds, hard and soft. The two distinct sounds vary depending on the letters or sounds around them.

The “hard” B or V (plosive) sound in Spanish usually occurs at the beginning of a word or next to the letters “m”, “n” or another consonant. The hard Spanish B or V sound closely resembles the English B sound but is slightly softer.

The "soft" B or V (approximant) sound is the more common of the two and does not exist in English. It occurs when the "b" or "v" appears in between two vowels within a word. When pronouncing the word, you don’t put in as much effort as when pronouncing the plosive sound – it is much softer and your lips barely touch. Think of it as the lazy way!

##  Those Spanish accent marks

When you speak Spanish, another important element to pay attention to is the Spanish accent marks. An accent mark or lack of it can completely change the meaning of a word, take <cite lang="es">*año*</cite> and <cite lang="es">*ano*</cite>, for example (we’ll leave that one up to you to translate).

The more official term, “diacritics”, is a symbol added to a letter. Spanish uses three such diacritics which all appear above a letter: the tilde (ñ), the diaeresis (ü), and the acute accent (é).

The Spanish tilde, written with “~” over a letter, is pronounced roughly like “ni” in the English word <cite lang="en">*onion*</cite>. It is used to indicate that the letter is doubled, by having the tilde standing in for the second one.

There aren’t many Spanish words that use a diaeresis and despite it looking identical to an umlaut, they have completely different purposes. In Spanish, this diacritic is only found on the letter U. Take the word <cite lang="es">*Guapo*</cite> for example, Spanish for *handsome*. Because the “u” is followed by a hard vowel, “a”, the W sound comes automatically. If we wanted to replicate that sound when preceding a soft vowel (E for example), the “ü” is used. It is this that gives the W sound to the word. 

![friends-music-culture-language-spanish](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/57UgZk1mDFpLX2SftkTyNT/5f01d3865426d99292d847bda96a7b82/friends-music-culture-language-spanish.jpg)

The acute accent (é) is the most common accent mark in the Spanish language and can appear above all five vowels (á, é, í, ó, ú). It is used to denote word stress or emphasize particular vowel sounds. The accented vowel tells you to pronounce that syllable louder or longer than the other(s).

When learning Spanish, pronunciation is a whole other area that English native speakers need to pay particular attention to. One of the best ways to improve your accent is by listening to podcasts. Read more about how to use podcasts to learn a language in our [“Top Free Podcasts for Language Learners”](https://www.tandem.net/top-free-podcasts-language-learners) blog post.

Read the following ways on how to improve your Spanish accent and to find innovative ways of speaking more like a native Spanish speaker!

speaking-talking-spanish-pronunciation

How to Perfect Your Spanish Pronunciation

Let me guess. You are reading this post because you want to know how to compose emails in the German language. Well, you have come to the right place because whether you are looking to end a formal letter to the *Bundesamt* or looking to write an informal email to your German friend, Tandem has every scenario covered. 

Are you also learning French? Check our our blog post on [how to sign off an email in French](https://www.tandem.net/how-to-sign-off-email-french)!

__Your language learning journey will require some helpful tools and resources to gain fluency. That is why Tandem is here to help! With the [Tandem app](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u), we connect language learners to native speakers to help them speak any language, anywhere.__

![writing email](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/31rMStf54jivSvUkrTknvs/77b76310d4f80f0f32c55569beea6b57/writing_email.jpg)

Written communication in German can sometimes be problematic as German is a language that distinguishes between formal and informal manners of address. 

__Sie Vs. du__

Before putting pen to paper (or finger to keyboard), you need to understand to whom you are addressing and the nature of the relationship. This then determines whether to address the person as _Sie_ (formal “you”) or _du_ (informal “you”), followed by the correct conjugation of the verb.

A few notes to keep in mind...

*Sie* has an obligatory capital S at all times and other polite forms include *Ihr(e)* and *Ihnen*. Another note of importance is that *Sie* is the default form for business letters and all other types of German business communication.

__First name Vs. last name__

As Germany is a more formal society, you also need to decide whether to address the person by first name or title and last name. Much like with *Sie* and *du*, it’s best to err on the side of caution and adopt the more formal manner, unless they have stated otherwise. 

Moral of the story, it's better to be more formal when in doubt!

## Start the email

The following suggestions also apply when writing a letter. You may think that it’s not necessary to write a letter in German nowadays, however, Germany still relies on the good old fashioned *Deutsche Post* for many matters of official business.

![german post](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/019IuH4hYmQz15fe2Siybp/844e6600b168b07b59465efc8cac4030/german_post.jpg)

#### Formal

__Sehr geehrter Herr...,__

This is a formal opening if you are writing to a man whose name you know. You would include their surname after *Herr*.

__Sehr geehrte Frau...,__

Same as above but to a woman whose name you know. You would include their surname after *Frau*.

__Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren,__

This greeting is used when the addressee is unknown. Translated directly, *sehr geehrte* means “very honored” but serves the same purpose as “dear Sir or Madam” in English letter salutations.

#### Informal

__Hallo...,__

This one requires little explanation. Meaning “hello”, this can be used for both male and female addressees in an informal letter or email.

__Liebe...,__

This is the most common opening for a German email or letter. It is the equivalent of "dear" in English. This is only used when addressing female friends or relatives.

__Lieber...,__

Same as above but used when addressing male friends or relatives.

Note, however, that unlike in English, you start the body of the email with a lowercase letter in German. Furthermore, one common mistake that you do not want to make is to use the wrong adjective ending. This does not start the correspondence on the right foot!

![writing email german](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/2m3gi0P6RxPvspNnqYw4mm/7061ea07add5ccb4130df7535c9de5ec/writing_email_german.jpg)

## Sign off the email

Before the official sign off of a letter or email, it can be nice to politely wrap up with a short sentence.

__Ich bedanke mich bei Ihnen im Voraus__

I thank you in advance.

__Ich würde mich freuen, bald von Ihnen zu hören__

I look forward to hearing from you soon.

__Für weitere Auskünfte stehe ich Ihnen gerne zur Verfügung__ 

I am readily available should you require additional information.

#### Formal

__Mit freundlichen Grüßen__

One of the most popular and widely used closing for formal occasions literally translates to “with friendly greetings.” You might also see it as “mfg” as a form of email lingo which is used in more casual situations.

__Mit herzlichen Grüßen__

This common formal term means “with best wishes”.

__Mit besten Grüßen__

This one translates to “best regards” or “with kind regards” in English. 

__Ihr(e)__

Meaning “yours” in English, *Ihre* is used if you are female and *Ihr* if you are a male.

![sign off email german](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/4zikLovuEqXlVl1fXkG6jf/71ec8e21eb9727409cb19c86a78ec660/sign_off_email_german.jpg)

#### Informal

__Viele Grüße or Liebe Grüße__

These two are the most common and natural-sounding conclusions. You might also see it as “VG” or “LG” respectively in emails.

__Gruß__

This is the equivalent of “regards” in English.

__Mach's gut!__

The English equivalent would be “take care!” or “take it easy!” and is typically only used in email.

__Dein(e)__

Meaning “yours,” *deine* is used if you are female and *dein* if you are a male.

An important final note to remember that unlike in English, there is no comma after a concluding expression in German!

<iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/WZ4M8M2VbauEo" width="480" height="274" frameBorder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowFullScreen></iframe><p><a href="https://giphy.com/gifs/WZ4M8M2VbauEo">via GIPHY</a></p>

Writing an email in German can be tricky. Tandem has come to your rescue with both formal and informal greetings and sign-offs for your German email! 

Typing email computer

How to Write an Email in German

Podcasts have the great ability to engage one’s mind and immerse oneself in any topic, wherever you may be. They are also a great way to maximize time and enjoyment spent plodding through everyday tasks. 

As you can tell, we are major podcast enthusiasts here at Tandem HQ. We have discovered that the world of linguistic podcasts is vast and varied, and there are a plethora of podcasts out there for you language-lovers. Whether you are a beginner in Korean, advanced in German or just feeling inspired to learn a new language, we’ve got you covered with THE go-to list of free language learning podcasts!

![podcast-language-learners](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/3xMXpA8BYE3HrlxJ4SxyGu/7508b7dabaa9851f8148bbd2e059d59c/podcast-language-learners.jpg)

## Wait, one thing first...

With millions of members, Tandem is the largest global language learning community out there! With our Tandem app, you can connect with native speakers all over the world and practice languages via text, audio message, and video call. __[Download Tandem today](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u) - it’s free!__

## Can Podcasts Really Help You Learn a Language?

It is debated whether or not language podcasts are effective language learning resources. It’s true that podcasts shouldn’t necessarily be used as your sole language learning tool, however, in conjunction with language lessons, for example, they are quite powerful at reinforcing your language skills. Here’s why:

__Skills training:__ Podcasts hone your listening, oral and communication skills in general. Some podcasts even offer transcripts or learning material, which also sharpens your reading and retention skills.

__Vocabulary building:__ Podcasts introduce you to new vocabulary and within the context of topics that especially interests you.

__Active or passive listening:__ Whether it’s passive listening on your daily commute, or active listening while you’re in some seriously focused study time, podcasts are great for both!

__Stimulation:__ You can simultaneously learn practically any topic under the sun while also improving your language learning skills. This method of language learning is more engaging and stimulating, and will, therefore, enhance your motivation to learn or improve on a language.

__Accessibility:__ There are many platforms that offer a vast array of free podcasts— Spotify, Stitcher, Google/ Apple podcast app, Podbean or simply on websites, to name a few.

![friends-listening-podcast-music](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/1ZAvloTPZ0eMdV46m2KwmJ/7807116824c7771556d2afae810c9a87/friends-listening-podcast-music.jpg)

## How to Select the Right Podcast Series for You

__1. Check the language level of the content__

Podcasts may target beginners, intermediate or advanced language     learners. Selecting a podcast that’s at the right level for you will ensure that the podcast challenges you without leaving you feeling overwhelmed.

__2. Look at the topics covered in the podcast__

Some podcasts focus more on cultural aspects, while others delve deeply into grammar rules. Have a think about what you are looking for in a podcast and what you would like to learn.

__3. How long do you want to commit to listening to a podcast?__ 

The length of episodes varies from a couple of minutes to sometimes an hour each, so it’s important to select a podcast that fits well into the time you have available.

__4. Consider native podcasts__

A great language learning strategy for advanced listeners is to consider native podcasts that don’t necessarily cover language-related content at all.

__5. Try out before committing__

There’s no harm in trying out different podcast series to find one that suits you. You might find that you have more of a connection to a certain podcast host over another. 

## Podcasts Series for Multiple Languages

__[Language Transfer](https://www.languagetransfer.org/)__

__Level:__ Beginner

__Languages:__ French, German, Spanish, Italian, Swahili, Greek, Turkish, Arabic

A really lovely podcast that focuses on the logic of languages. You will learn languages in a very different way than you are used to after listening to the Language Transfer podcast. Trust us on this one.

__[Radio Lingua: Coffee Break](https://radiolingua.com/category/podcast/)__

__Level:__ Beginner, Intermediate

__Languages:__ German, Spanish, French, Italian, Chinese

This is probably one of the longest-running language learning podcasts. It is a very popular language learning podcast and comes recommended by language learners. 

__[News in Slow](https://www.newsinslow.com/)__

__Level:__ Intermediate

__Languages:__ Spanish (Spain/ Latino), French, Italian, German

This podcast covers a varying range of topics and also provides great resources which makes this podcast come highly recommended!
![earphones-music-learning](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/2z0iO7gkp0i3Ij6qGvOZ9q/ca8dd9077fa531b488eec8344ebdbf39/earphones-music-learning.jpg)

## Podcasts for Learning German

__[Deutsche Welle](https://www.dw.com/de/media-center/podcasts/s-100976)__

__Level:__ Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

If you had to limit yourself to just one podcast, this should be it. DW covers all sorts of content ranging from interviews, news stories, sports news, economics and fitness tips— practically anything and from native speakers!

__[Nachrichtenleicht](https://www.nachrichtenleicht.de/podcast-nachrichtenleicht.2134.de.html)__

__Level:__ Beginner, Intermediate

This podcast discusses news, sports, politics, and culture in simple German. They include a dictionary in every episode so you can become familiar with or recap important vocabularly used within the episode.

__[Easy German](https://www.easygerman.org/podcast)__

__Level:__ Beginner, Intermediate

The Easy German Podcast discusses topics from Germany and around the world while explaining words and expressions. They also have a super helpful YouTube channel which you can find linked here. We definitely recommend checking them out.

__[Bayerische Rundfunk](https://www.br.de/mediathek/podcast/)__

__Level:__ Advanced

Similar to Deutsche Welle, BR covers all sorts of very interesting content, tailored more towards advanced German listeners.

## Podcasts for Learning Spanish

__[1001 Reasons To Learn Spanish](https://www.1001reasonstolearnspanish.com/podcasts/)__

__Level:__ Intermediate

Learn Spanish with Juan. Each episode is conducted entirely in Spanish, at a pace that is not too slow and not too fast, with grammar and vocabulary chosen for your level.

__[Español Automático](http://www.espanolautomatico.com/)__

__Level:__ Intermediate, Advanced

This podcast is brought to by Karo Martinez who is a Spanish teacher, blogger, and passionate language learner. She shares language learning anecdotes, discusses real-world topics, and her personal and professional development materials.

![relaxing-reading-listening-podcasts](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/2HZkvTNoaeRW2K6WTD33gn/2f5b53668297122dfd98b774531eea60/relaxing-reading-listening-podcasts.jpg)

## Podcasts for Learning Italian

__[30 Minute Italian](http://icebergproject.co/italian/podcast-2/)__

__Level:__ Beginner, Intermediate

The 30 Minute Italian podcast covers expressions, grammar, and culture through the host Cher’s personal travel stories.

__[Italiano Automatico](https://www.italianoautomatico.com/)__

__Level:__ Intermediate

This podcast is available on Spotify, Podbean, and iTunes. Alberto covers a good mix of topics from grammar to culture.

__[Radio Deejay](https://www.deejay.it/podcast/)__

__Level:__ Advanced

Radio DeeJay is an Italian radio station. Their podcast is highly entertaining and gives you an insight into the Italian language and culture.

## Podcasts for Learning English

__[Learn English](https://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/general-english/podcasts)__

__Level:__ Beginner

This English podcast is by the British Council. The vocabulary is simple and you’ll find a lot of free support materials. We advise you to download the transcript of an episode first and read it as you listen to the podcast.

__[Actual Fluency](https://actualfluency.com/actual-fluency-language-learning-podcast/)__

__Level:__ Intermediate, Advanced

This podcast features great guests and is not only for English learners. It doesn’t focus on grammar and vocabulary but rather it’s about getting you motivated to learn the language. Any language-lover will appreciate this one.

__[The BBC: The English We Speak](https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p02pc9zn/episodes/downloads)__

__Level:__ Intermediate, Advanced

This podcast is even of interest to native English speakers. It is a weekly podcast focusing on a relatively new term of vocabulary or slang in the English language in each episode. Recent examples include “ghosting”, “big data”, and “buzzkill”.

![listening-music-walking](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/7ApmxDaMpeI2nViTPSziMb/da204e30e215129ad1e731e79ee9bcc9/listening-music-walking.jpg)

## Podcasts for Learning Japanese

__[Learn Japanese Pod](https://learnjapanesepod.com/)__

__Level:__ Beginner, Intermediate

This is a great podcast if you are just starting out with Japanese as it covers pronunciation and listening skills, and Japanese grammar, and vocabulary.

__[NHK Main News Podcast](https://www.nhk.or.jp/podcasts/program/r-news.html)__

__Level:__ Intermediate, Advanced

NHK is Japan's national broadcasting organization. This is a great podcast to get up-to-date Japanese news, while simultaneously building on your vocabulary and comprehension of the language.

## Podcasts for Learning Korean

__[Let’s Learn Korean](http://world.kbs.co.kr/learn_korean2/english/)__

__Level:__ Beginner

Designed by [Korean Broadcasting System (KBS) World](http://world.kbs.co.kr/service/index.htm?lang=e), a South Korean TV Channel. Each episode includes an overview of essential sentences and vocabulary while providing accompanying transcripts. If English isn’t your native language, they provide the podcasts in ten different languages, including French, Indonesian, Russian, and German!

__[SpongeMind Podcast](https://soundcloud.com/spongemind)__

__Level:__ Intermediate, advanced

This one is a fantastic resource for you Korean language learners. They release two versions of the same episode– one in Korean and one in English. Genius!

## Podcasts for Learning Russian

__[Speaking Russian](http://www.russianeasy.com/)__

__Level:__ Beginner

If you’ve just started learning Russian as a foreign language, this is for you. This podcast releases short weekly episodes covering the basics of the language.

__[Slow Russian](https://realrussianclub.com/slowrussianpodcast/)__

__Level:__ Intermediate

This podcast does exactly what it says. The Russian language is finally spoken slow enough to understand it! Daria, the podcast’s host and Russian teacher covers many cultural topics. Her [website](https://realrussianclub.com/) and [YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyJznKYS9kkP7RWWq3YAbFw) also provides really useful content and resources.

__[Radio Mayek](https://radiomayak.ru/podcasts/)__

__Level:__ Advanced

As Radio Mayek is a Russian radio broadcasting company, their content is vast and varied, making it a treasure trove for Russian language learners.

Whether you are a beginner in Korean or advanced in German, Tandem HQ has you covered with THE go-to list of FREE language learning podcasts!

podcast-free-language-learning

Top Free Podcasts for Language Learners

As a web developer by day and a language learning enthusiast by night, let me share some of the techniques and tools I've developed to make some of the boring aspects of language learning more fun.

Personally, I think you should enjoy everything you do. If you like an activity, you will achieve success in it. Let's apply this principle to [language learning](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u).

## Mining words while reading for fun

The most daunting part of language learning is, of course, cramming words. Many would agree that the most efficient way to learn vocabulary is flashcards. I subscribe to that wholeheartedly. But is there a more *fun* way to do flashcards?

If you enjoy reading in your target language, you are definitely looking up words from time to time. How do you make sure you remember them? Creating a flashcard right away would be distracting.

To automate this and enjoy a seamless reading experience, I've built a Chrome extension called [Fluentcards](https://fluentcards.com). You can [install it here](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/fluentcards-dictionary/fdppeilamokmgmobedkdmjiedkbblngd?hl=en). It combines an instant dictionary and your flashcards storage. It works like so:

- You select a word or phrase you don't know
- The extension automatically pulls up a dictionary definition
<img alt="Fluentcards dictionary" src="//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/4aFZvCL2JoWsBSA4nUnttu/56861692ce5bf149330b1cd22ebc8db6/extension.png" width="500" />
- The word along with the context sentence is saved into your deck
- You can edit and organise your deck on [fluentcards.com](https://fluentcards.com)
![vocab](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/6wMUfl7rSMQOrDcEfZLuzy/9adb64077e2671e39e5a78db1159f65f/vocab.png)
- The deck can be reviewed in Anki or Memrise

## Watching Netflix with interactive subtitles

Another aspect of language learning is being able to understand what people are saying to you. There are two components of success in this area:

- Knowing the words
- Having the listening skill

Once I had at least 4k words under my belt (learnt using Anki and the method described above), I noticed a significant increase in listening comprehension. There's no way around vocab.

How do you train the listening skill itself, though? By listening a lot. Listening to something that you're able to understand. It's called the [comprehensive input theory](https://www.sk.com.br/sk-krash.html).

Netflix provides a good deal of native material in many languages, and usually with subtitles in many languages. A quick tip: use VPN in a country of your target language to switch the shows on Netflix to that language.

I've created a Chrome extension, [Subflix](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/subflix/mcglnpbpfabkopmjolffgpagpkcmmnce?hl=en), that improves upon Netflix' subtitles UI. It allows you to:

- Skip to any scene quickly
- Replay a phrase if you didn't quite catch it the first time
- Look up words in a dictionary. E.g. using the Fluentcards extension ;)

![Learning languages with Netflix](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/1woJsAO0QIq11mXohoZa1l/03b39325e77f4acc30d87ec6718a41f7/unnamed.jpg)

After many months of practice, I can now understand most shows in my target language (German) without subtitles.

If you're a beginner, children's shows like "Puffin' Rock" or "The Avengers" animated series work best. Dubbed old time classics like the "Terminator" are very good, too. Dubbed shows are in general much easier to understand than the originals, because the voice actors tend to speak clearer than the original actors. Just imagine Arnold Schwarzenegger dubbed in German...

<center>
  <big><cite lang="de">"Ich will deine Kleider, deine Stiefel und dein Motorrad."</cite></big>
</center>
![Clothes-Boots-Cycle](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/aIe6klZocH0rz4FzmrRWO/0cf8d0e2980077cb481ab1b0032a035e/Clothes-Boots-Cycle.jpg)

## Have fun!

I guess, the main takeaway is enjoy it! Learning a foreign language is exciting and shouldn't ever be boring!

A short list of Chrome extensions for learning a foreign language in a fun way. Our frontend developer Ivan is sharing a few tips on how he learned German using the technology he built himself.

Netflix chrome extensions

Chrome Extensions for Language Learners

Planning a big trip to Germany? Or maybe you’re curious about the German language? Either way, [German is a beautiful language](https://www.tandem.net/11-beautiful-german-words) (though it may not sound like it) and we thought we would share with you the ultimate package of 50 German words and phrases. We will go through the basics, key travel phrases, funny German words and phrases, and some emergency phrases in case you get stuck. Los gehts!

## German Basics

**1. <cite lang="de">Hallo, wie geht’s?</cite>**
     
   Hello, how are you?
   
![hello english](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/36awIt7tB96KBcwUKyzMqi/9ff7d4db3c4fed723d3e9d61c6773815/hello_english.jpg)
     
**2. <cite lang="de">Mir geht’s gut</cite>**
     
   I am good

**3. <cite lang="de">Freut mich, Sie kennenzulernen!</cite>**
     
   Nice to meet you!

**4. <cite lang="de">Vielen Dank</cite>**

   Thank you very much! 

**5. <cite lang="de">Bitte schön!</cite> / <cite lang="de">Gern geschehen!</cite>**

   You’re welcome

**6. <cite lang="de">Wie heißen Sie?</cite>**

   What’s your name?

**7. <cite lang="de">Ich heiße…</cite>**

   My name is...

**8. <cite lang="de">Willkommen!</cite>**

   Welcome!
   
![confetti celebration party](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/13I2iyRwFTY7CrCNDT0Mgq/265d0694015d3fa0a259971918471c52/confetti_celebration_party.jpg)

**9. <cite lang="de">Alles Gute zum Geburtstag!</cite>**

   Happy Birthday!

**10. <cite lang="de">Es tut mir leid</cite>**

   I’m sorry

**11. <cite lang="de">Bis später!</cite>**

   See you later!

**12. <cite lang="de">Tschüß!</cite>**

   Bye!

## Key Travel Phrases

**Why Should You Learn German Travel Phrases?**

It never goes unappreciated when a foreigner makes an effort to speak the native language of the country they are visiting. It demonstrates that you truly want to reach out and connect with people while abroad — the key to having an authentic cultural experience. 

It is also a common misconception that all German speakers can speak English. Even in Germany’s big cities, many people know very little English. Don’t be that tourist who has to track down an English speaker every time they have a question. 

If you want a leg up on your upcoming travel to a German-speaking country, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the following key German travel phrases!

![germany countryside](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/6qxzqr9SY7hTE4m9oU69o7/4b968998a65c6e78a5298badda17a1da/germany_countryside.jpg)

**13. <cite lang="de">Entschuldigung, wo ist…?</cite>**

   Excuse me, where is…?

**14. <cite lang="de">Flughafen</cite> / <cite lang="de">Bahnhof</cite>**
      
   Airport/ train station

**15. <cite lang="de">Krankenhaus</cite> / <cite lang="de">Apotheke</cite>**
      
   Hospital/ pharmacy

**16. <cite lang="de">Ist es weit weg?</cite>**
      
   Is it far away?

**17. <cite lang="de">Zum Stadtzentrum, bitte</cite>**
      
   To the city center, please

**18. <cite lang="de">Darf ich bitte einen Stadtplan haben?</cite>**
      
   Could I please have a city map?

**19. <cite lang="de">Fährt dieser Zug nach…?</cite>**

   Does this train go to…?
   
![plane flying traveling](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/4nLd8ngG3iYMBFT4hx8pvV/1a04901e7d944f1491b9d68680d6a6cf/plane_flying_traveling.jpg)

**20. <cite lang="de">Können Sie mir das auf der Karte zeigen?</cite>**

   Could you please show it to me on the map?

**21. <cite lang="de">Wie viel kostet das?</cite>**

   How much is it?

**22. <cite lang="de">Haben Sie etwas Billigeres?</cite>**

   Do you have anything cheaper?

**23. <cite lang="de">Um wieviel Uhr öffnet/ schließt das Geschäft?</cite>**

   What time does the shop open/ close?
   
   ![open sign](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/6HSfhjBjknhl9ArGY1M6K6/7efa808ee73f054cb21af97443060d5a/open_sign.jpg)

**24. <cite lang="de">Darf ich mit Kreditkarte/ Bargeld bezahlen?</cite>**

   Can I pay with card/ cash?

**25. <cite lang="de">Kann ich bitte die Speisekarte/ Weinkarte sehen?</cite>**

   Could I please see the menu/ wine list?

**26. <cite lang="de">Ich hätte gern…</cite>**

   I would like...

**27. <cite lang="de">Haben Sie vegetarisches Essen?</cite>**

   Would you have any vegetarian dishes?

**28. <cite lang="de">Ein Glas Leitungswasser, bitte</cite>**

   A glass of tap water, please
  

**29. <cite lang="de">Die Rechnung, bitte</cite>**

   The bill, please

**30. <cite lang="de">Prost!</cite>**

   Cheers!

![cheers friends party](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/7CkSeKjxjfHbbYf2j3TYsn/c96607bb42451e6f2fd5904a329d5a3d/cheers_friends_party.jpg)

## Funny German Words and Phrases

**31. <cite lang="de">Ich verstehe nur Bahnhof</cite>**

   **Literal:** I only understand train station 
   
   **Meaning:** I don’t understand

**32. <cite lang="de">Du bist ein Erbsenzähler</cite>**

   **Literal:** You’re a pea counter
   
   **Meaning:** You are very nitpicky
   
![peas](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/49oGo6eUjz4lAQbjtTqIJ7/b29c5f59015e0d344177312348746e35/peas.jpg)

**33. <cite lang="de">Hüftgold</cite>**

   **Literal:** Hip gold
   
   **Meaning:** Love handles

**34. <cite lang="de">Du hast nen Sprung in der Schüssel</cite>**

   **Literal:** You have a crack in your dish
   
   **Meaning:** You’re crazy

**35. <cite lang="de">Drachenfutter</cite>**

   **Literal:** Dragon feed
   
   **Meaning:** A gift a husband buys his wife to apologize for doing              something inconsiderate

**36. <cite lang="de">Ich glaub mein Schwein pfeift</cite>**

   **Literal:** I think my pig whistles
   
   **Meaning:** I believe I’m dreaming

![dreaming clouds](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/7edjvxKJtjNb3l8BXGiT9S/2f199c768947aad5643babd12b1f5b83/dreaming_clouds.jpg)

**37. <cite lang="de">Holla die Waldfee</cite>**

   **Literal:** Holla the wood fairy
   
   **Meaning:** Well, that's unexpected

**38. <cite lang="de">Faultier</cite>**

   **Literal:** Lazy animal
   
   **Meaning:** Sloth

**39. <cite lang="de">Weichei</cite>**

   **Literal:** A soft egg
   
   **Meaning:** A coward

**40. <cite lang="de">Komm schon, spring über deinen Schatten</cite>**

   **Literal:** Come on, jump over your shadow
   
   **Meaning:** Get out of your comfort zone

**41. <cite lang="de">Feierabend</cite>**

   **Literal:** Celebration evening
  
   **Meaning:** When the day's work is done and you have the evening free to      do whatever you want — Feierabend!

**42. <cite lang="de">Tut mir leid, aber mein Englisch ist unter aller Sau</cite>**

   **Literal:** Sorry, but my English is under all pig
   
   **Meaning:** Sorry, but my English is just the worst

![pig piglets](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/7qx7EZfIUrFxQi399kXdq5/da7b870a1c291922a01ce43d50875575/pig_piglets.jpg)

**43. <cite lang="de">Schadenfreude</cite>**

   **Literal:** Damage happiness
   
   **Meaning:** Pleasure derived by someone from another person's misfortune

**44. <cite lang="de">Handschuhe</cite>**

   **Literal:** Hand shoes
   
   **Meaning:** Gloves

**45. <cite lang="de">Fernweh</cite>**

   **Literal:** Distance pain
   
   **Meaning:** Opposite of homesickness — the feeling of wanting to be            somewhere else

Haven’t gotten enough of these funny German expressions? Check out our blog on [funny German words and phrases you need to know](https://www.tandem.net/funny-german-words-phrases)!

## German Phrases for Emergencies

In case a local mistakes you for being a native speaker with your flawless German, here are some useful expressions for when that Swiss man starts going off in rapid German!

![emergency](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/4s89EKUZCkXT2DR4ji056/67c5d77cf0ccb7d6b44d010459b188e5/emergency.jpg)

**46. <cite lang="de">Können Sie das übersetzen?</cite>**
  
   Can you please translate that?

**47. <cite lang="de">Ich verstehe nicht</cite>**
  
   I don’t understand

**48. <cite lang="de">Können Sie das bitte wiederholen?</cite>**

   Could you please repeat that?

**49. <cite lang="de">Sprechen Sie Englisch?</cite>**
    
   Do you speak English?

**50. <cite lang="de">Ich spreche nur ein wenig Deutsch</cite>**
    
   I only speak a small bit of German

If you are still new to the German language, you may be feeling a bit overwhelmed after reading this article, which is completely understandable — this list is, admittedly, a lot to take in. However, once you get a grasp of fundamental German grammar and German vocabulary, it will become a lot easier to commit these basic German phrases to memory.

![lightbulb memory idea](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/3F9wspbS0TsRwNdrNZkghM/a2b9902149fccf3b0068ea3a3de31445/lightbulb_memory_idea.jpg)

## Oh, One More Thing...

Try practicing some of these phrases out loud to perfect your pronunciation. Or what’s better, practice them with a native speaker!

__[The Tandem app](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u)__ is the best way to gain fluency in any language. With millions of members, Tandem is the largest global language learning community out there! Tandem lets you connect with native German speakers all over the world, and practice speaking German via text, voice notes, and video calling. Immerse yourself in the German language and culture, and speak your way to fluency, __for free!__

More of a traveler? Connect with native German speakers ahead of your trip by using the “search by city” Pro feature, or the “near me” Pro feature for when you are already there! Still getting your head around the German language? Use our in-app translation feature to help compose a message or translate an incoming one. Correct your Tandem partner's message or add a comment to help them learn and progress. Still not sure about German pronunciation? Simply tap on the message you want to hear and choose the “speak” option. Einfach!

Private lessons more your thing?

With Tandem Tutors, you can master the German language even quicker. Our Tutors are certified professionals who offer one-on-one lessons anytime, anywhere. With Tandem Tutors, it’s easy to find someone who matches your style and works around your schedule.

__[Download the Tandem app](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u) and master the German language now!__ 

Planning a big trip to Germany? Or maybe you’re curious about the German language? We have put together the ultimate package of 50 German words and phrases!

strong ultimate

50 German Words and Phrases: The Ultimate Package

There are plenty of reasons why you should master an American accent. For starters, it will reduce communication barriers and improve your self-confidence, while also preventing mistakes caused by confusion or having to repeat yourself. It’s important to keep in mind that the term “American accent” is a gross oversimplification as there are multiple accents even within a single region of America!
 
With so many advantages of having an American accent, it’s worth the effort to develop one. However, you’ll need to work hard to make it happen. But before you can feel confident in your English speaking abilities and begin WOW-ing people who find out that English is actually your second language, you’ll need a strategy in place to help you master the American English accent.

![pexels-photo-2749090](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/6QZoUSwnabDh85X0S75e1T/4afe82695dbb295a72479d33c9332ab2/pexels-photo-2749090.jpg)

## There Are Many Different American Accents
The United States is a large country. Home to over [320 million people](https://www.statista.com/topics/760/united-states/) spread out over 3.797 million square miles. That’s a lot of areas and a lot of people. And that means A LOT of accents: New York, New England, Southern Coast, African American, Midwestern, Texan, and Californian. 

This article will focus on a neutral, Standard American Accent. This will be your best option for speaking in a way that’s easily understood throughout the country.  

## Use the American Word NOT the English Word
It may seem commonsensical, but if you’re going to convince people that you’re a native-English speaker from America, you need to use the right word for things. Here are a few quick examples to highlight the point. Check them out:

| American       | British        | 
| -------------- | ---------------| 
| Apartment      | Flat           | 
| Chips          | Crisps         | 
| Candy          | Sweets         | 
| Cookie         | Biscuit/Cracker| 
| Eggplant       | Aubergine      | 
| Elevator       | Lift           | 
| Sweater        | Jumper         | 

*To avoid using the wrong word, make sure that your language-learning program offers the right tools and resources to learn the American variation of English.*

![patrick-tomasso-hAUF3AbeGJk-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/0RbZAfGYf906rY95bDm5D/176103b1317f5c0014643b4c59ad66bc/patrick-tomasso-hAUF3AbeGJk-unsplash.jpg)

## Master the "Schwa" Sound
Despite being the most common sound in every dialect of English, not that many people are familiar with the term “schwa sound”, including native speakers. Recognized by the “ǝ” symbol, it can be made by every vowel. And you’ll find it in unaccented/unstressed syllables of words. In short, it’s the “uh” sound in words.

Here are a few examples (in bold):

- B__a__lloon
- Penc__i__l
- __O__fficial
- Afterw__a__rd
- Choc__o__late
- S__y__ringe

Note: while it may be referred to as the “lazy sound” in a word, that refers to pronunciation rather than as a judgment statement. All native speakers use the schwa sound. If you were to pronounce all the vowels in these words, it would sound strange to a native speaker.

## Master the Correct Pronunciations
There are several sounds either unique to English or only found in a few other languages. The ones only found in English are naturally harder for English language learners, and you’ll have a hard time mastering these. But if you want to master the American English accent, you will need to master these. Otherwise, you’ll gloss over them when speaking and either create confusion or quickly point out that you’re a non-native speaker.

<table>
	<thead>
		<tr>
      <th><span style="font-size:1.3em">Sound</span></th>
			<th><span style="font-size:1.3em">Examples</span></th>
      <th><span style="font-size:1.3em">Explanation</span></th>
		</tr>
	</thead>
	<tbody>
		<tr>
      <td><span style="font-size:1.3em">R vs. L</span></td>
			<td><span style="font-size:1.3em">Father, Bottle, Water</span></td>
      		<td><span style="font-size:1.3em">Hard "r" at the end that isn't trilled. Often, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean speakers struggle with these sounds.</span></td>
      </tr>
		<tr>
      <td><span style="font-size:1.3em">W/V</span></td>
			<td><span style="font-size:1.3em">Water, Vowel, Weight, Varied</span></td>
      	<td><span style="font-size:1.3em"> 
          Some European languages switch the pronunciation making it easy for native speakers to pick up on it.</span></td>
      </tr>
		<tr>
      <td><span style="font-size:1.3em">Th</span></td>
      <td><span style="font-size:1.3em">Thing, The, That</span></td>
      <td><span style="font-size:1.3em">Not found in some languages and often substituted with other consonants.</span></td>
        </tr>
		<tr>
      <td><span style="font-size:1.3em">-ion</span></td>
      <td><span style="font-size:1.3em">Fiction, Diction, Meditation</span></td>
      <td><span style="font-size:1.3em">Pronounced as "Shun."</span></td>
       </tr>
		<tr>
      <td><span style="font-size:1.3em">-ed</span></td>
      <td><span style="font-size:1.3em">Wanted, Laughed, Played</span></td>
      <td><span style="font-size:1.3em">One ending, three different pronunciations (/id/, /t/, /d/).</span></td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

## General Tips on Speaking
Going beyond pronunciation, you also need to practice how you talk. American English has its own rhyme and tone you’ll need to practice so you can speak with a proper accent. Here are a few quick tips to get you started:

- __Speak Slower__: Believe it or not, all languages vary in speed. Japanese is the fastest recorded language (7.84 syllables per second) with Spanish as a close second (7.82). English is slower at 6.19 syllables per second.
- __Pause After Phrases__: Americans speak in phrases (groups), and they typically pause briefly after these phrases. This is something that will require practice and paying close attention.
- __Emphasize the Important Word__: Every phrase has a specific keyword that is the focus, this should be slightly emphasized. I.e. “The guy just ran in there.” Here you would be emphasizing that a person’s actions by pausing after “just” and emphasizing it (slightly) before completing the sentence.
- __Speak Louder__: Americans tend to speak louder when talking. They don’t yell, but they’re not quiet either. So, you’ll need to speak up when conversing with others.
- __Ennunciate More__: One other difference (and passing joke) between American English and British English is that “Americans pronounce everything.” And there’s some truth to that. Take “Bottle” for example. American accents would include the T's in the middle, while many variants of British English would exclude them.

## Know Contractions and When to Use Them
Contractions shorten longer words, making speech faster. Often avoided in professional communication, contractions are necessary when talking if you want to sound natural. Using words like “you’re” instead of “you are” and “don’t” instead of “do not” go a long way to convincing others you’re an American English speaker.

## The Use of Idioms, Sarcasm, and Humor
While this article is about speaking with an American accent, you can’t pass as a native speaker if you’re English is too “by the book”. Speaking in an American English accent isn’t just about replicating pronunciation, tone, and rhyme, you have to speak in a way that’s similar to how Americans talk. This means you need to understand idioms, sarcasm, and humor.
 
An idiom is a phrase of words that doesn’t literally mean what’s being said. These are expressions and there are 100s of them. “A blessing in disguise” is one, for example. These are coded messages that provide a culturally understood meaning. Using them when you speak will help people feel a greater connection to your words.
 
Sarcasm and humor are two very complicated linguistic concepts that you need to be careful when using. To begin with, they illustrate a stronger command of the language. But they’re not always appropriate in a given situation. Knowing when and how to use them will go a long way to help make your American accent more convincing.

![baylee-gramling-ui00DmD1KAU-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/4ubv4t8AKBNed2xVL9KVWM/50922931b19ea2680afa71eda7071c6c/baylee-gramling-ui00DmD1KAU-unsplash.jpg)

## How to Practice Your American Accent
No matter your age or ability, you can [become truly fluent in a foreign language](https://www.optilingo.com/blog/russian/does-age-matter-foreign-language-fluency/) with a proper accent. And you don’t have to hire an acting or accent coach either. There are a lot of resources at your disposal. The key is to listen to and imitate American speakers. Keep in mind that this requires a lot of practice in both listening and speaking.
 
Practice and correction will improve your accent. And it doesn’t have to be hard or boring. Watching a lot of YouTube videos, movies, and TV shows, for instance, is a great way to hear American accents. Talking to native speakers and asking them to correct you can be helpful too. 
 
Repetition and reflection are also vital. So, you’ll want to repeat scenes or videos over and over while speaking along with the actors until you feel confident in your abilities. You can also record yourself talking and then play it back so you can hear the difference. Over time, you’ll train your brain while developing your ability to speak in an American accent. 

*This guest post was brought to you by Entrepreneur and Linguist, Jonty Yamisha, who created [OptiLingo](https://www.optilingo.com) after his efforts to protect his native language, Circassian, from extinction. Using scientifically proven strategies such as Spaced Repetition and Guided Immersion, OptiLingo has helped thousands finally achieve fluency.*

Learning English and wanting to know how to master an American English accent? Tandem gives the lowdown on how to get your accent up to scratch so that you sound like a local in no time! 

San-Francisco-Golden-Gate-Bridge

How to Master an American English Accent

Starting to learn a foreign language from scratch is never a simple task; it requires motivation, clear goals, and a strict learning structure to really succeed. Here at Tandem, we like to think we’re pretty knowledgable on the whole “learning a language” thing, so we’ve rustled up this post on how to learn Danish for beginners! 

![ava-coploff-tcE9zSc2SU8-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/4zUXC9ncKlWu9aQLiUtr66/53ff9652e874613b9f3fa3e0dae1cf88/ava-coploff-tcE9zSc2SU8-unsplash.jpg)

Before we get to the tricks and hacks on how to learn Danish, let’s start with the obvious question. 

## Why should I learn Danish?

The Danish language is spoken by approximately 5.6 million people worldwide. Outside of Denmark, you’ll find people speaking Danish in Germany, Greenland, Norway, and Sweden among others. 

Compared to other Scandinavian languages, like Norwegian and Swedish, Danish is a tricky language to learn. Danes pronounce words completely different to how they are written, which can be a bit mind-boggling at times! On top of that, there are also extra letters (Æ, Ø, and Å) that aren’t in the English alphabet. But the fact that it’s a challenging language to learn is another reason to give it a go! 

For those planning to live and work in Denmark, learning the language will increase the amount of work opportunities available to you. Similarly, if you’re to planning to enter into [education in Denmark](https://www.studentum.dk/), it’s also a good idea to start learning the language well in advance so you don’t limit the types of courses you can enroll in. 

Either way, complete beginners in Danish can start out slowly with the words for “hello” (*halløj* or *hej*), “please” (*vær så venlig*) and “thanks” (*tak*) and build up their vocabulary bit by bit. 

## How can I learn Danish as a beginner? 


__1. Take a language course at a language school__

Admittedly, language classes aren’t for everyone, but they’re a great way to get you into the routine of learning a language and meet other new people in the city. It’s usually less daunting practicing languages with other non-native speakers! There are plenty of public and private language centers in Denmark with flexible courses depending on your schedule and language level. If your schedule is tight, you can also sign up for an online course.  

![element5-digital-jCIMcOpFHig-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/5GtYb96yp8Y6y0MjeJxvVR/cb09a7eb34e1e3fb17780d90d39ab125/element5-digital-jCIMcOpFHig-unsplash.jpg)

__2. Live with native speakers__

Sometimes being forced to speak the language is the best way to advance your skills. Step out of your comfort zone and find a room in a flatshare with Danish natives. Simply being in an environment where you hear the language being spoken helps to tune your ears to the new sounds. You also tend to pick up colloquial or slang words and phrases quicker this way, which is one of the elements of language learning that isn’t easily taught.  

__3. Flashcards__ 

It may be a lot of repetition but flashcards are a great way for Danish beginners to get to grips with all the new vocabulary. [Quizlet](https://quizlet.com/en-gb) or Duolingo’s [Tinycards](https://tinycards.duolingo.com/) are both great tools for this. Alternatively, if you want a handy way to save new words you come across on the web, check out [Fluentcards](https://fluentcards.com/)! 

Not totally sold on flashcards? Stick post-its with the Danish words for objects around your flat. That way you’ll see them every day and slowly familiarize yourself with the word and the spelling. 

__4. Listen to Danish podcasts__

There are plenty of podcasts available for Danish beginners, covering everything from Danish news, to culture, and politics. We’ve heard very good things about *The Snak*, described as a “bite-sized podcast about Scandinavia” as well as DR’s extensive [podcast library](https://www.dr.dk/radio). 

For those wanting to learn more about the Danish culture (in English), check out *[How to live in Denmark](https://www.howtoliveindenmark.com/category/podcasts/)*. It’s a great resource for newbies trying to find their way in Denmark, with topics such as what to wear to work in Denmark, Danish Christmas traditions, and even the Danish dental care system.  

![siddharth-bhogra-k3kdc5MQYyk-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/5Ttug9EA74uCAoxsa3qWI0/80b024598de6fbca29f0aa16a23abdfb/siddharth-bhogra-k3kdc5MQYyk-unsplash.jpg)

__5. Download language learning apps__ 

We’re big believers that language learning apps are one of the best ways to advance your language skills! Most vocab trainers, such as Duolingo, Memrise or Drops, offer Danish courses to get you started with the basics. Once you’re confident and want to put what you’ve learned to the test, download a language exchange app like [Tandem](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u) and find a native speaker to have a real conversation with.

__6. Read the news in Danish__ 

Don’t neglect [reading in the language your learning](https://www.tandem.net/practice-reading-foreign-language)! Taking five minutes out of your day to read the news in Danish is an ideal way of expanding your vocabulary and staying up to date with what’s happening in Denmark and the rest of the world. We’d recommend reading [DR’s news site](https://www.dr.dk/nyheder) as it’s a little easier to read and perfect for those still getting to grips with the Danish language. 

![roman-kraft- Zua2hyvTBk-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/4o1bP7ZM1L3VLJrkE7aSNz/8e18db1840c9aeb08a547e9428c617db/roman-kraft-_Zua2hyvTBk-unsplash.jpg)

__7. Don’t stress about the pronunciation__

We already mentioned that Danish pronunciation is hard to grapple with at first since Danes tend to only pronounce small sections of the word. For example, “God morgen” is the Danish translation of “Good morning.” When spoken, it’s actually pronounced gor morn. Concentrate on the vocabulary and grammar first and once you’re more confident with that side of the language, your pronunciation and accent will come more naturally.

Here at Tandem, we like to think we’re pretty knowledgable on the whole “learning a language” thing, so we’ve rustled up this post on how to learn Danish for beginners!

Danish-Flag

How to Learn Danish: A Beginner’s Guide

The upcoming European Day of Languages (EDL) on September 26th, celebrates the linguistic heritage of European countries and advocates the importance of lifelong language learning. There are 225 indigenous languages spoken on this small continent with 24 official languages in the European Union. With all of these languages and cultures, Europe makes for a pretty vibrant and unique  place. To mark Europe's diversity, we have made a list of the 10 most spoken languages in Europe!

__1. Russian__

Russian kicks off our list as THE most spoken language in Europe with 120 million native speakers. Interestingly, as most European languages use the Latin alphabet, Russian on the other hand uses the Cyrillic alphabet. This can be quite a challenge for Europeans wanting to learn Russian as a foreign language. Russian is widely spoken in many eastern European countries. It is the sole official language of Russia, and one of the official languages in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Belarus.

![ilia-schelkanov-ctN79wemAI4-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/62mIBO1gCG0WtLiEOP6xFQ/4882d2ef6d8e2a73052fe5b2b0070926/ilia-schelkanov-ctN79wemAI4-unsplash.jpg)

__2. German__

German comes in second with being the primary language of approximately 13.3% Europeans or 100 million people. It is the sole official language of Germany, and Liechtenstein and is a co-official language of Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, and Luxembourg. German is one of the three procedural languages of the European Union along with English and French. [The German language](https://www.ninabuschmann.com/learning-german-online/best-resources) is the most widely-understood language after the English language as it is a popular second or third language in many European countries.

__3. French__

Coming in third after Russian and German is French, with the number of native speakers at about 80 million. It is the official language of France, and a co-official language of Switzerland, Belgium, and Luxembourg. French’s global reach is most impressive as 29 countries claim it as an official language and about 45% of modern English words are of French origin. French is a primary language of many international organizations including the United Nations, the European Union, and the World Trade Organization.

__4. English__

You had to be expecting this one to pop up somewhere on the list, right? English is the fourth most widely spoken language in Europe with approximately 70 million native English speakers – the number of English-speaking expats residing in Europe significantly adds to this figure. It is one of the official languages of Ireland, along with Irish, and is the de facto language of the United Kingdom. English is the most spoken second language in Europe followed by German and French.

__5. Turkish__

Turkish is the official language of Turkey with 70 million native Turkish speakers on the continent. Turkish is also widely spoken around the Mediterranean, particularly in Macedonia, Greece, Serbia and other parts of Europe and Central Asia. Turkish is classified as a member of the Ural-Altaic Linguistic Family, making it closely related to Finnish and Hungarian. Turkish used to be written with the Arabic alphabet up until 1928, however, has since changed to the Latin alphabet to make it easier to learn and to increase literacy. 

![adjusted](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/4HzugXguAJ5zeaxjqu0qJX/d0af0952615d72d21d60aec09c74462a/adjusted.jpg)

__6. Italian__

Coming in at number six, Italian has more than 69 million speakers and 3% of European citizens being able to speak it as a second language. Italian is the official language of Italy (obviously), the Vatican City, Switzerland, San Marino, and a minority language in Croatia and Slovenia. Being a Romance language under the Indo-European language family. Authentic elements of Italian culture are its art, music, and classic cuisine. Italy was the birthplace of opera and is also one of the leading countries in fashion design.

__7. Spanish__

Speaking of Romance languages, 45 million Europeans claim Spanish as their mother tongue. Not only is Spain one of Europes most popular travel destinations, but learning Spanish will also open up whole continents to you. Spanish is the official language in 21 different countries and is the [second-most spoken native language in the world](https://www.tandem.net/most-useful-languages-world-travel), behind Mandarin Chinese. Spanish also has lexical influences from Arabic with 8% of the Spanish dictionary originating from Arabic – the second-largest lexical influence on Spanish behind Latin.

__8. Ukranian__

The East Slavic language Ukrainian has 45 million native speakers, with the majority residing in Europe. It is the official language of Ukraine and one of the official languages in Romania and Russia. Similar to Russian, written Ukranian uses a variant of the Cyrillic script. Though Russian and Ukrainian come from the same roots of Old East Slavic, the Ukrainian language is actually more similar to Belarusian, Czech, Slovakian and Polish languages.

__9. Polish__

40 million people of the European population are native Polish speakers. The Polish language belongs to the West Slavic group of the Indo-European language family and is greatly influenced by Germanic languages, predominantly German, and Italic languages such as Latin and French. Polish is centered almost entirely around Poland, where it’s the official language, however, sizable Polish minorities exist in the Czech Republic, Belarus, Ukraine, Lithuania, Hungary, and Slovakia.

![copy](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/6wJ3KSAOA8WxshxoCV1Krh/04d5715d83e052bd06ff7413cd186129/copy.jpg)

__10. Romanian__

Narrowly beating Dutch, Romanian takes the last spot on our list. The Romanian language is an Eastern Romance language spoken by approximately 23 million people as a native language in Europe. Romanian is primarily spoken in Romania, Moldova, and Transnistria. If you like gothic architecture and castles, the cities of Transylvania are the places for you, while if the great outdoors is more your thing, then the Bucegi Mountains and Bigar Waterfall are just a couple of things that are worth your time seeing in Romania.

__Speaking is the fastest way to fluency. But getting the chance to speak a language is a challenge when you’re not living in the country. What if there was a way to befriend a native speaker and practice any time, any place, totally for free? Enter the [Tandem app](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u), where you can speak any language, anywhere.__

To celebrate Europe's linguistic diversity and to mark the annual European Day of Languages, we have made a list of the 10 most spoken languages in Europe!

italy-venice

The 10 Most Spoken Languages in Europe

Language learning apps are said to be revolutionizing language learning. Apps are a great way to learn the [German language](https://www.tandem.net/funny-german-words-phrases) because you'll always have them at your fingertips and they are either free or a more affordable option. However, they are intended as study aids and should ideally be used in combination with other resources. Here is a list of the best apps for learning German, anywhere, any time (there’s really no excuse now).

1. [Drops](https://languagedrops.com/languages/learn-german)

Drops focuses on one thing, vocabulary and it does it extremely well. This app is one of our favorites purely because of its beautiful design. Drops offers short, engaging word games with mnemonic associations to build vocabulary. Whether its matching pictures to their translations or unscrambling letters to practice spelling, the exercises feel like fun games rather than learning. They have a 5-minute session limit which makes Drops incredibly addictive and immersive– which is not a bad thing when it comes to learning German!

![rsz drops](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/5Ao58GuqZv5n0ntJ4ym4Pt/059f4cf5391c5f2cea20ac3c41fcf942/rsz_drops.png)

2. [Memrise](https://www.memrise.com/courses/english/german/) 

Similar to Drops, Memrise focus is on vocabulary, however, other features include a pronunciation guide to help you speak like a local by recording and comparing your pronunciation with native speakers'. The awesome part of Memrise is its spaced repetition. Memrise’s algorithm calculates when and how often you should review each word and will then send you reminders. Cool, right?

![Memrise](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/1JTqCjjB7LHSBqXPa3hkI3/119ca617b81a66a8993efe3737c09e32/Memrise.png)

3. [Tandem](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u)

Our list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning our very own Tandem app. Here at Tandem, we believe that speaking is the fastest way to fluency! That’s why we’ve developed an awesome free app that allows members to connect with native speakers all over the world and practice 160+ languages via text, audio message, and video call. With millions of members, Tandem is one of the largest language learning communities out there, so you are sure to find a language exchange partner that fits for you.

![Tandem Langauge Exchange](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/5N6I9TlobfluVlHvrw8QaG/9b14a66cbcc326f074d13dd4cf972a0a/Tandem.png)

4. [Der Die Das](https://www.derdiedas-app.de/)

This app is a must-download for all German language learners. It’s all well and good when you finally come to terms with German vocabulary, however, the struggle is real when there are three different ways to say “the” in German…. Yeah, it’s sadly true! Der Die Das helps you to learn and memorize the articles of German nouns through interactive quizzes. It has grammar tips and a complete summary of rules and guidelines for determining German articles. You are also able to listen to how the words are pronounced and can add words to your “favorites.” 

![Der Die Das](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/3fwKdO6x0nVyKpATLyQNgD/cfe70ea3e5bd7e667369a4bee4dd2f74/Der_Die_Das.png)

5. [LingoDeer](https://www.lingodeer.com/home)

LingoDeer started out as a language learning app for only Japanese, Korean and Chinese but has since added German, French, Spanish, among others. LingoDeer might not be as well-known as other language learning apps but is considered to be an alternative and even superior to Duolingo. Crafted by language teachers, LingoDeer's curriculum and exercises train your reading, listening, speaking and writing skills. What we particularly love about LingoDeer is their customizable experience– even of the voice of the narrator– and offline mode so even if you're off the grid, you can still learn German. Yay!

![LingoDeer](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/7n7ellBHq7EM1Hgz3rRbVX/9cc0354d12f0da172eee4798b9b0de89/LingoDeer.png)

6. [Chatterbug](https://chatterbug.com/en/learn-german)

Chatterbug helps you master the German language through a curriculum that tackles German grammar and vocabulary, with flashcards, reading and writing exercises. Chatterbug also offers video lessons with native speaking tutors. One cool thing about the app is that the more you study and practice your German, the more customized your curriculum becomes from Chatterbugs software that learns your strengths and weaknesses.

![Chatterbug](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/77A4x8gpVMQP56Gvvd3fG3/88d5f84c45ace11a1177536d93556aa8/Chatterbug.png)

7. [Duolingo](https://www.duolingo.com/course/de/en/Learn-German)

Duolingo offers lessons through listening exercises, flashcards, and multiple-choice questions to teach new German phrases, German verbs, and words. Duolingo is probably most known for its motivation strategy by having a persistent owl named “Duo” checking up on you to make sure you're on track to reach your goals. It also shows your "streak", which is the number of days in a row that you’ve reached your goal. Don't lose your streak!

![Duolingo](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/6DKx2JsLnIXWTVTVE54NVM/3b0c6b70181629c44bd3114036b1bc4f/Duolingo.png)

All the apps mentioned above are free to download from both the Google Play and App Store but may require a subscription in order to access all courses and features. While none of these apps are a stand-alone language course, they are an excellent addition to a language learner’s toolbox that helps improve your German language skills.

Apps are a great way to learn the German language. Here is a list of the best apps for learning German, anywhere, any time!

Berlin-Brandenburg-gate

The Best Apps for Learning German

Languages and traveling the world go hand in hand with each other. One doesn’t necessarily require the other, however, speaking the local language can completely transform your travel experience. This article will explore the most useful languages for world travel because languages really are key to having an authentic cultural experience and making new friends all over the world.

__Tandem is not only for those on a language learning journey but also for those brave nomads and travelers out there. Speak the language of the locals and meet new people in the country you are traveling to. [Download the Tandem app](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u) now to connect with people all across the world!__

![peter-hammer-ggQy5lGtwb0-unsplash copy](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/2eMk0nn73HkrmYtEYm8io6/27606080f2182e5b5466ad4171366320/peter-hammer-ggQy5lGtwb0-unsplash_copy.jpg)

## 1. English

If you are reading this article, you are either one of the 360 million native English speakers or one of the billion people who speak it as a second language. Since the vast majority of the world's population has at least a basic understanding of the English language, you are spoiled for choice for your next travel destination. It is an official language in the United Kingdom, the United States, Jamacia, Down Under (Australia), New Zealand, Barbados and many more. 

However, as a native English speaker, relying exclusively on widely-understood English travel vocabulary can sometimes mean missing out on the deeper cultural layers of each country you visit.

## 2. Spanish

Learning Spanish will open up whole continents to you. It is one of the most spread languages around the world, and it is the official language in 21 different countries. To this day, there are approximately 500 million Spanish speakers worldwide. Being a Romance language, Spanish shares the same origins with Portuguese and Italian, for example, which leaves you open to building further language skills. Spanish is a perfect language to learn for travelers on a budget since Spanish-speaking countries are generally very affordable.

## 3. Chinese

There are almost 1.2 billion native Chinese speakers, making up 16% of the world’s population. Having a sturdy level of Mandarin and Cantonese will help you navigate the language’s vast geographic reach more independently. There are many places worth traveling to where speaking Chinese will be useful for you. Among these are Hong Kong, Taiwan, Tibet, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore, however, you can find a Chinese community in almost every city in the world.

## 4. Hindi

Spoken in India and parts of Pakistan, Hindi is a ‘big five’ world language. More than half a billion people speak it, of which half are native speakers. India is already a hot backpacking and luxury travel destination, and Pakistan is steadily climbing its way up as it improves its security and infrastructure. India exports fantastic cuisine and yoga, plus Hindi is the tongue of Bollywood so this should be an easy choice for your next travel destination!

## 5. Arabic

When most people think of the Middle East and the Arab World, Arabic is naturally the first language that comes to mind. However, there isn’t really a language called “Arabic.” Arabic is so vastly different in its respective dialects that they are often considered separate languages, grouped as one for the sake of convenience. 

There are about 313 million collective Arabic speakers in the world with 25 countries that claim an Arabic language as an official or co-official language. Egyptian Arabic is the closest thing to standard Arabic which holds the record for the largest Arabic-speaking population at around 65 million people.

![isabella-juskova-icn6l4iRwKA-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/3rmqQranRhf7ieuIEH4iSD/a67f5fb40409a024d14ff08d6d09767c/isabella-juskova-icn6l4iRwKA-unsplash.jpg)

## 6. Russian

Russian is the most spread Slavic language in the world with roughly 166 million native speakers in the world. Speaking Russian will see you from the Baltic Sea all the way to the Bering Strait and is THE traveler’s tool for traversing Eurasia. Russian is formally recognized as a minority language in Eastern Europe including Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Moldova, Georgia, and Romania. The only disadvantage for travelers is that Russia requires a visa for most Western foreign visitors.

## 7. Portuguese

Portuguese is the official language of Portugal and Brazil with over 200 million speakers. However, did you know that it’s also an official language in parts of Asia? Portuguese is actually widely spoken in Macau, where it’s an official language, and Japan as Brazilian immigrants brought the language with them. 

Portuguese is also spoken in geographically scattered African countries. Angola, for example, has a notoriously troublesome visa policy, making it next to impossible for Western travelers to enter, thus leaving it an internationally undiscovered gem.

## 8. Bengali

Sandwiched between India and Southeast Asia, Bangladesh is home to 200 million speakers of one of the widest-spoken languages in the world. As a travel destination, the Bay of Bengal is densely populated with some of the most beautiful and undiscovered wildlife in the world. Bangladesh hasn’t reached the mainstream travel itineraries as of yet, but its tourism industry is growing. If you want to get there before it gets swamped with tourists, brush up on your Bengali and book a flight!

Bon Voyage!

![giphy](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/3ZpzLWUPd5EVyWv1q0N3OB/d17f515438058b0bddf44b16b4ec604d/giphy.gif)

This article explores the most useful languages for world travel. Languages are key to having authentic cultural experiences and making new friends worldwide!

travel-traveling-roadtrip

Most Useful Languages for World Travel

”Can I have a triple, venti, soy, no foam latte, please?” Sometimes ordering coffee is like speaking a whole other language — even if you are ordering it in your native language. This is why we have put together a guide on how to order coffee in 8 different languages.

__Speaking is the fastest way to fluency. But getting the chance to speak a language is a challenge when you’re not living in the country. What if there was a way to befriend a native speaker and practice any time, any place, totally for free? Enter the [Tandem app](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u), where you can speak any language, anywhere.__

## Where does the word “coffee” come from?

The word "coffee" entered the English language in the 1600s. The coffee plant (Coffea Arabica) is native to the Kaffa province of Ethiopia. Coffee beans had then reached the Middle East where coffee was referred to by the Arabs as “قهوة” (pronounced qahwa). It was then said to have been sold to merchants in Venice, who called it “caffè” derived from the Turkish “kahveh.” From there, it eventually worked its way into English as “coffee.”

![nathan-dumlao-264380-unsplash (1)](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/6crLUWzEdbZmMlztZj5Qln/615f7fbf6de562617e21b2f26160ca84/nathan-dumlao-264380-unsplash__1_.jpg)

## The word “coffee” in other languages

So, we have covered the translation for coffee in Turkish (kahveh), Arabic (قهوة) and Italian (caffè), let’s take a look at the word “coffee” in some more of the world’s most commonly spoken languages.

- Chinese: 咖啡 (Kāfēi)
- Malay: Kopi
- French: Café
- German: Kaffee
- Japanese: コーヒー (Kōhī)
- Korean: 커피 (Keopi)
- Portuguese: Café
- Russian: Кофе (Kofe)
- Spanish: Café
- Afrikaans: Koffie
- Dutch: Koffie
- Finnish: Kahvi
- Greek: Καφές (Kafés)
- Hindi: कॉफ़ी (Kofee)
- Icelandic: Kaffi
- Romanian: Cafea
- Swedish: Kaffe

## How to order coffee in different languages

There's nothing better than having a good chat with someone over a hot cup of coffee. Coffee, like languages, helps to bring people together so there’s no doubt that it will be very useful to learn how to order a coffee in different languages.

__1. German:__


The German word for “coffee” is “Kaffee.” If you want to keep it simple and efficient (the German way) you can say “Einen Kaffee, bitte” meaning “a coffee, please.” If you want to get more specific, you can say a “Schwarzkaffee/Americano” (black coffee) or “Milchkaffee” (coffee with steamed milk). If the coffee choices are quite complicated you can simply ask the barista “Was können Sie empfehlen?” (what would you recommend?). Unlike other European countries, it is not unusual to ask for your coffee to go or “Zum Mitnehmen.” You might hear the barista say “Sonst noch etwas?” (anything else?), to which you can simply reply with “Nein, danke” (no, thank you).

__2. French:__

Even though “un café” means a coffee in French, be prepared to get an espresso instead of a cup of coffee. “Une noisette” is the French name for a shot of espresso with a slight splash of hot milk. “Un allongé” is a safe bet if you are looking for something similar to filtered coffee. This is still stronger than most filtered coffee, but not nearly as strong as espresso. To form a sentence you can say, “Bonjour. Je voudrais un café, s'il vous plaît." It is common practice to say “bonjour” to anyone the first time you speak to them, so don’t forget that word to be polite. If you want your coffee to go, let the barista know by saying “Cafe à emporter.” The French will never fault you for being overly polite so at the end of your order add in “merci” (thank you).

__3. Spanish:__

If you are looking to order a single shot of espresso you will need “Café Solo.” If you want a double hit of caffeine, ask for a “Café Doble” or two shots of espresso. The one most popular with tourists would probably be a “Café Americano” (Americano). Like all Americanos, a Café Americano basically has extra hot water added to the espresso shot to make a weaker brew. “Cortado” is an espresso with a splash of milk while a “Café con leche” is half espresso and half milk. With the coffee vocab down, it’s time to form a sentence: “¿Puede darme un café solo, por favor?”

__4. Italian:__

When in Italy, “un caffe” is implied to mean espresso. So, in the morning you can say, “buongiorno, un caffè per favore.” The barista may then ask you, ”lo vuole macchiato?” (do you want it macchiato?), meaning with a drop of cold milk. You can ask for a “macchiato caldo” if you want the milk to be steamed. If espresso is too strong, you could also ask for a “caffè lungo” (long), which is weaker as it is brewed with more hot water. Another popular favorite is a “cappuccino,” a shot of espresso with milk foam – you may also hear it called “cappuccio.” An important thing to remember when ordering coffee in Italy: don’t ask for “latte” unless all you want is a glass of cold milk!

__5. Portuguese:__

“Um café” is an espresso, and it’s what you’ll get if you ask for a coffee. If you would like to order something less strong and milkier go for “Uma meia de leite.” This is half milk and half coffee, and it’s similar to a flat white or a latte. You can choose to make it stronger by asking for “uma meia de leite escura.” If you are a little bit less adventurous, ask for “um abatanado com um pouco de leite” (black coffee with a bit of milk).

![coffee in Portuguese](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/24vOswS2YmKKqV5TZVAvXF/c198f3e1d25b901d5bd258cde1df915f/nathan-dumlao-4hjgcuADlL8-unsplash__1_.jpg)

__6. Chinese:__

The first thing to do when you see the menu in Chinese is to not freak out! These are some translations for your favorite coffees:

- 浓缩咖啡— nóng suō kā fēi (Espresso)
- 美式咖啡— měi shì kā fēi (Americano)
- 拿铁— ná tiě (Latte)
- 卡布奇诺 —  kǎ bù jī nuò (Cappuccino)

If you would like the iced version of any of the above, just add the word 冰 (bīng) in front of the coffee. For example, 冰拿铁 (bīng ná tiě) which means Iced Latte. Other important words include 牛奶— niú nǎi (milk), 豆浆— dòu jiāng (soy milk) and 糖— táng (sugar). Start off with a greeting followed by what you would like to order: 你好！我想要一个美式咖啡加豆浆— Nǐ hǎo! Wǒ xiǎng yào yīgè měishì kāfēi jīa dòu jiāng (Hello! I would like an Americano with soy milk, please).

__7. Japanese:__

A regular coffee or a black coffee without milk or sugar is ブラックコーヒー pronounced burakku kouhii or burakku for short. A single espresso shot is エスプレッソ (esupuresso) or ダブル (daburu) if a double shot. One thing to note is that some old-style cafes or 喫茶店 (kissaten) won’t offer espressos because they are a relatively new trend in Japan— the intense and concentrated flavor doesn’t necessarily suit the Japanese palate. A Latte in Japanese is ラテ (rate) and a cappuccino is カプチーノ (Kapuchīno). Iced coffee or アイスコーヒー (aisu kouhii) is very popular during the summertime and is also quite common to find it during the winter. Other important words are ミルク (miruku) meaning milk, and 砂糖 (さとう) meaning sugar. After saying this, just add おねがいします(onegai shimasu) which means “please” or “can I have.”

__8. Russian:__

Despite the fact that the Russians are mainly tea-drinkers, their coffee culture has grown a lot over time. The names of the most popular coffees in Russian are:

- Эспрессо (Espresso)
- Американо (Americano)
- Латте (Latte) 
- Капучино (Cappuccino)

If you would like to specify the size of the coffee you would like you can choose Маленький (small), Средний (medium), Большой (large). An important word when ordering a coffee in Russia is sugarー сахар. Roughly 83% of coffee consumed in Russia is made with sugar.* Putting this vocabulary in a sentence you can say Мне, пожалуйста, американо без сахара (I would like Americano without sugar).

*[RussiaKnowledge](http://www.russiaknowledge.com/2017/12/12/the-russian-coffee-market/)

Sometimes ordering coffee is like speaking a whole other language. This is why we have put together a guide on how to order coffee in 8 different languages!

coffee-coffee-beans

How to Order a Coffee in Different Languages

Communicating in a foreign language is an exciting time to show off your skills. However, it can also be quite daunting when in unfamiliar territory such as signing off an email in French. To help ease your panic, we have compiled a list of formal and informal closings for your email in French. 

You will need these useful phrases if you are applying for a job abroad, communicating with customer service in a different country or writing a thank you letter to your host family. How you sign off an email in French depends on how well you know the person to whom you're writing, the purpose of the letter, and the degree of formality.

Knowing how to sign off an email in French signals your familiarity with the language and with the culture. As you know from our article on how to say [thank you](https://www.tandem.net/thank-you-different-languages/) in different languages, exercising the right etiquette to someone from a different country is very important. Appropriately signing off an email in French shows respect to the recipient and leaves them with a positive impression of you.  Let’s take a look at some of these closings now!

__Your language learning journey will require some helpful tools and resources to gain fluency. That is why Tandem is here to help! With the [Tandem app](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u "adjust link"), we connect language learners to native speakers to help them speak any language, anywhere.__

![302.9KB](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/5qW9o9ppoKK0vAMOdQPvvv/779b30cf90a14f640099cc365f3428f8/302.9KB.jpg)

## Dans l'attente de votre réponse (formal)

Meaning “I look forward to hearing from you,” include this if you want to indicate that you're waiting for an answer. This can also be shortened to “Dans l'attente” for semi-formal correspondence.

## Veuillez recevoir, Monsieur/Madame, mes salutations distinguées (formal)

Literally meaning “please accept, Madam / Sir, my best regards” in English, this is used for general business or formal emails. This phrase is similar to "yours sincerely" in English. 

## Je vous prie d'agréer ma considération distinguée (formal)

The literal translation in Engish would be “please accept my distinguished consideration,” however, there is no direct English equivalent of it. This sounds much more formal than the etiquette in English, however, it is commonplace in the French language.

## Veuillez agréer l'expression de mes sentiments respectueux (formal)

This phrase is used when the recipient’s name is unknown. It is the equivalent of “yours faithfully” in English.

## Cordialement (formal/semi-formal)

The English translation would be equivalent to “kind regards.” You can also add “bien” or “très” in front of it if you need a stronger closing.

“Cordialement” can also be used alone for semi-formal business emails, which is becoming increasingly more common. However, if you are unsure, it is best to use one of the longer, more formal closings above, just to be on the safe side. 

## Respectueusement (formal/semi-formal)

Meaning “respectfully,“ this also has the same purpose as “cordialement.”

![167.5KB](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/308d1n6cJ4S56AVC4Hlj6L/bf70cc576a0dc292dcd763b86a70789a/167.5KB.jpg)

## Amitiés (informal)

Meaning “best wishes” or “all the best” in English, this can be used regardless of the closeness of the relationship.

## Je vous adresse mon très amical souvenir (informal)

Meaning “kindest regards” in English, this closing is appropriate with an acquaintance.

## Amicalement (informal)

Meaning “kindly” or “best wishes” in English. This closing is appropriate for emails to acquaintances and friends who are older. Adding “bien” in front of it (bien amicalement) translates it to mean “in friendship” in English.

## Chaleureusement (informal)

“Warmly” or “with warm regards” is a common way to sign off an email between friends.

## A bientôt / à plus tard (informal)

Both have the same meaning as “see you soon” in English. “À plus tard” is commonly shortened to “A+” and is mostly used between friends.

## Je vous envoie mes amicales pensées (informal)

This is a lengthier way of saying “best wishes” in English. Literally meaning “I send you my friendly thoughts,” this phrase is most appropriate between family and friends.

Now you’re all set to finally finish that email that you have been putting off ;). If you don’t know which closing is most appropriate, it's usually best to err on the side of caution and use the more formal option. No one will ever be offended by excessive formality!

Understanding written etiquette, especially when signing off an email in French, is important to avoid any unintentional offense. With the [Tandem app](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u "adjust link"), you gain fluency in French by speaking with native speakers, while also increasing your familiarity with French etiquette and culture. If you need some help with the rest of your email in French, ask your Tandem partner for some tips!

## Oh, One More Thing...

Learning French... good.
Tandem... even better!

__[The Tandem app](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u)__ is the best way to gain fluency in any language. With millions of members, Tandem is the largest global language learning community out there! Tandem lets you connect with native French speakers all over the world, so you can practice speaking French via text, voice notes, and video calling. Immerse yourself in the French language and culture, and speak your way to fluency, __for free!__

More of a traveler? Connect with native French speakers ahead of your trip by using the “search by city” Pro feature, or the “near me” Pro feature for when you are already there! Still getting your head around the French language? Use our in-app translation feature to help you compose a message or translate an incoming one. Correct your Tandem partner's message or add a comment to help them learn and progress. Still not sure about French pronunciation? Simply tap on the message you want to hear and choose the “speak” option. Simple!

Private lessons more your thing?

With Tandem Tutors, you can master the French language even quicker. Our Tutors are certified professionals who offer one-on-one lessons anytime, anywhere. With Tandem Tutors, it’s easy to find someone who matches your style and works around your schedule.

__[Download the Tandem app](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u) and master the French language now!__

![giphy](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/4ByMHm0y2MERpDqJYKKYwo/eb809001dc8a7ae78d725cdea9336f5e/giphy.gif)

Want to know how to sign off an email in French? To help ease your panic, we have compiled a list of both formal and informal closings!

Alexander III bridge Paris France

How to Sign off an Email in French

This week’s guest blog post comes from [Chineasy](https://www.chineasy.com/talk/), an amazing company that helps teach Chinese characters using a groundbreaking visual method. The post is particularly useful for our readers who have already entered the world of work, but it’s also an interesting read for those of you who are just starting to learn Chinese. Enjoy!

__Looking for a way to boost your language skills quickly and effectively? Our [Tandem app](https://app.adjust.com/ud8gq6d) helps you find a conversation exchange partner to chat with! Whether you want to learn the latest slang phrases, need clarification for a tricky grammar rule or just want to talk to a like-minded language learner, Tandem is the app for you!__

![chinese-phrases-clients-2](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/40Iog1bFFQZx8MJ5eu1Erd/6bfb7bd468e2e022268b894b0eb539b0/5-Phrases-to-Impress-Your-Chinese-Clients_1.jpg)

The terms “business world” and “China” are becoming synonymous. In global trade, the Chinese Renminbi is now more widely used than the Euro. The 95 Chinese companies in Forbes’ Fortune 500 are fast approaching the US’ 128. French is no longer the language of diplomacy and money; it is Mandarin. Whether you are negotiating international trade deals or selling homes in your community, you will likely work with Chinese clientele. You don’t have to be fluent in Mandarin to impress— simply learn some key phrases to dazzle your Chinese investors.

## 1. 谢谢 (xiè xiè) – “Thank you”

This is the most important word in Mandarin! Before marching into that meeting, you should know “xiè xiè”. This common and crucial word is often mispronounced by Westerners, so here’s a useful trick. Try saying “shee-yeh shee-yeh” through a wide smile, to get the sound just right. Simply thanking your clients in their native tongue will show respect and professionalism.

![impress-chinese-clients-thank-you](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/7gx0sPjx1feZ4C4gPv03jV/138ee87d0199026c39d9e2dfbfe1db5f/Thank-you.jpg)

##  2. 大家好 (dà jiā hǎo) – “Hello everyone”

This is a phrase you shouldn’t plug straight into Google Translate. It literally means “big home good.” In practice, it means “hello everyone,” an elegant way of addressing a group. They will be amazed that you can greet them with something other than “nǐ hǎo!” In my experience working on a Chinese talk show shooting in Hollywood, I often use “dà jiā hǎo” to address my viewers familiarly. It comes off as casually polite and inclusive.

![Hello everyone.jpg](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/4aEiJVZOupTVyK1hblQnMD/e5dbbe299ef44ec50b7406b8f7e8909b/Hello-everyone.jpg)

##  3. 老板 (lǎo bǎn) – “Boss”

Have you ever wanted to call your boss an “old block of wood?” The Chinese have been doing it for centuries! The term “lǎo bǎn” literally means “old plank,” and is the Mandarin term for “boss.” Don’t worry; there’s no negative connotation. It shows great courtesy and respect. You can use it to address your manager or CEO, or the owner of a shop you enter. The proprietor of a business will be flattered when you greet him with “nǐ hǎo, lǎo bǎn!” But what if your boss is a “she”? Female bosses can also be “lǎo bǎn,” though there is a more specific term. In old China, “老板娘” (lǎo bǎn niáng) referred to the boss’s wife. She was the true master of household and business finances. Today, “lǎo bǎn niáng” can be the male boss’s wife or the boss herself.

![Boss.jpg](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/1DKB9euU7oWz3R2vOsedDm/7bae172b0f5cd759da58485775038b87/Boss.jpg)

## 4. 没事儿 (méi shìr) – “No problem”

If you’ve worked in foreign business, the following situation is all too familiar: your client bumps into you and apologizes profusely. Not knowing how to respond in their language, you laugh awkwardly and make frantic hand gestures to show that you’re “all good.” Let’s move past this, shall we? When someone tells you “I’m sorry” (duì bù qǐ), you can respond with 没事儿- “no problem.” You can also use it when someone arrives late or has to cancel a meeting; it can mean “no worries.” This phrase can remedy uncomfortable situations and break the ice. Chineasy by ShaoLan mentions in [Talk Chineasy Podcast](https://www.chineasy.com/talk/) that “méi shìr” is pronounced differently in different regions. People from Beijing often say it like “méi shàr.”

![No Problem](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/26Fb5dj1rKMAZWm4b2Od5x/5b6ce1d1a3e8123b7722094c3ba7d4a3/No-problem.jpg)

##  5. 干杯 (gān bēi) – “Cheers”

No business deal is complete without a glass of beer to celebrate it! Be the first to say “gān bēi!” and seal the deal. The Chinese word for “cheers” is more of a command than an exclamation: it means “empty the cup.” Don’t worry, you don’t have to drain the glass. It does, however, show respect to your guests. There is a cultural protocol for toasting in China:

*   Raise your glass with both hands.
*   Say “gān bēi.”
*   Hear your entourage happily shout it back.
*   Empty the cup!

![Cheers.jpg](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/1gX55ZQ3hcZGY0eAO3D9TG/5c3e6a0562552778904364d08bd862c5/Cheers.jpg)

This guide will take you from the first hello to the last drink. Learn more at the Cineasy website [here](https://www.chineasy.com/talk/)!

Looking to impress your Chinese clients with your knowledge of Chinese? Tandem has teamed up with Chineasy to help you get started!

/5-phrases-impress-chinese-clients/

5 Phrases to Impress Your Chinese Clients

If you’ve ever lived in a foreign country where they speak another language, you’ll remember the difficulty of getting to grips with the local slang. Unfortunately, there are some things that you just don’t learn in a language school. Thankfully for you, Tandem is here to help you figure out the meaning behind some of the most common textspeak from around the world.

__Improving your language skills doesn’t have to be boring… Have fun with conversation exchange! Tandem is not only a language exchange [app](https://app.adjust.com/ud8gq6d), but it is also a community where our members feel empowered to speak any language, anywhere.__

![jae-park-9 SaFlgwFdA-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/2BvSKzZocLhiAxbFtMqdlB/2ba62640441df2f450b3f4e7175a8a21/jae-park-9_SaFlgwFdA-unsplash.jpg)

## 5555 (Thai)

There are tonnes of ways to laugh online, the most famous abbreviation being LOL. So it’s no surprise each country has their own way of laughing in textspeak. In Thai, the number 5 sounds like the word “ha,” so 555 is the same as saying “hahaha.” In case you ever make an embarrassing language-learning blunder, this is a great way to laugh at your mistakes.

## FOMO (English)

It’s fair to say that the majority of us have experienced that uneasy feeling when an event is happening elsewhere and you feel like you’re missing out. In English, you’d use FOMO, an acronym for the “fear of missing out,” to express this feeling.

## SQN (Portuguese)

In Portuguese, if you’re not in the mood for something you can use SQN. It’s a shortened version of “só que não,” which pretty much translates to “just no.” For those times when you really don’t fancy pizza for the third time in a row, tell your friend SQN. They’ll get the hint ;)

## 7451 (Simplified Chinese)

As with our Thai example, Chinese speakers also make the most of the similarities between words and numbers. The phrase 气死我 (qì sǐ wǒ le), meaning “I am very angry,” is simplified to 7451, as the pronunciation of the four numbers in succession (qī sì wǔ yī) is very similar. It’s a pretty neat textspeak example if you ask us!

## Ktal (Spanish)

Your Spanish Tandem partner might have used the abbreviation Ktal in a conversation with you before, but do you know what it means? Its full version, “¿qué tal?” is the Spanish way of asking “what’s up?” Since the word “qué” is pronounced like the English “k” sound, they just shorten it to “Ktal.” Easy!

## grz (Italian)

Most languages have an abbreviation of thank you, like “thnx” in English. “Grazie” is the Italian word for thanks and can be shortened to “grz” if you’re in a rush and want to save some time.

## NASAA (Irish)

The phrase YOLO is a common English abbreviation of “you only live once.” If you want to say this in Irish, however, you use “níl ach saol amháin agat,” abbreviated to NASAA. It’s often said when talking about traveling, a career change, or simply taking a risk knowing it might not pay off. You only get one shot at life so you might as well go for it - NASAA!

![Textspeak YOLO NASAA](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/5Npo6ycUjLTqCNdxWWQU3/f107916147bf1e657ad56d3476864912/blake-wheeler-61115-unsplash.jpg)

## MfG (German)

If you’re sending a text or even a casual email in German, you can sign it off with MfG. In Germany, you often use the salutation “Mit freundlichen Grüßen” at the end of a message or email. It’s a way of saying “yours sincerely” or “sincere regards.” If you’re particularly friendly with someone you can also use LG, which is an abbreviation of “Liebe Grüße” or “best wishes.”

## Спсб (Russian)

It’s also common for Russians to use textspeak. An informal way of saying thank you in Russian is “спасибо.” When time is of the essence, you can cut it down to “cпсб.”

<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jgPB2gEfAq8" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

One reason why we really love our Tandem app is because it gives our the members the chance to learn things that aren’t traditionally taught in language schools. Being truly fluent in a language means you use idioms and can understand local slang or even textspeak. So, [download our app](https://app.adjust.com/ud8gq6d) and find yourself a Tandem partner to teach you those little nuggets of language learning gold!

One of the trickiest aspects of learning a language is understanding slang. Tandem is here to help you crack the code to textspeak from around the world!

friends

Foreign Slang You Need to Know to Sound Like a Native

Have you ever experienced a moment in your language learning where something just clicks and your understanding of the language reaches a whole new level? That’s a breakthrough moment and a milestone to remember! For those of you who haven’t got there yet, here’s how to recognize when you’ve hit that all-time high in your language learning journey…

__Speaking is the fastest way to fluency. But getting the chance to speak a language is a challenge when you’re not living in the country. What if there was a way to befriend a native speaker and practice any time, any place, totally for free? Enter the [Tandem app](https://app.adjust.com/ud8gq6d), where you can speak any language, anywhere.__

## 1. Dreaming in your target language

If you’re a language learner, you’ve probably heard this one before. It’s often believed that when you start dreaming in the language, you’ve reached fluency! The trouble is, most dreams are quickly forgotten, so it could be that some of us reach this point earlier than we realize. Regardless, it’s a great sign of progress!

![dream in another language](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/4Qa5368qk03rVBcTD92xaz/c40a276ad8b7fdc824d8bb84fd3cd923/gregory-pappas-734927-unsplash.jpg)

## 2. Correcting your own mistakes

Getting to the point where you not only recognize but actually correct your own mistakes is a definite linguistic milestone. It shows you really understand the ins and outs of the language. In general, once you correct a particular mistake yourself, you’re less likely to make the same mistake again!

## 3. Making and understanding jokes in a foreign language

Humor really does differ between cultures, especially if irony or sarcasm is involved. That’s why understanding why something is funny in a different language definitely counts as a breakthrough moment! The next step is actually making jokes in your target language. If you’ve already mastered this, we reckon you’re totally nailing it!

![make jokes foreign language](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/PaqZDKUoH5ASrzE6PKDHb/fc2bc147055ab51c847e25464ed58a00/rawpixel-674079-unsplash.jpg)

## 4. Understanding native speakers on public transport

We’re not encouraging you to eavesdrop on random conversations, but it is a great achievement when you can understand a conversation between two people on the train. Without any context, it’s not easy to figure out what is being discussed. Managing to make sense of the conversation shows you’re fully tuned in to the language.

## 5. Packing your grammar books away

When you’re ready to put your language learning books to the back of the bookshelf, it is time take the world by storm with your awesome language skills. Breakthrough moment alert! It is a sign you’re ready to practice what you have learned and you don’t need to rely on a book anymore. That being said, it’s always good to have a handy dictionary nearby for your ever-growing [list of vocabulary](https://www.tandem.net/tips-remember-new-vocabulary).

## 6. Quitting direct translation from your native language

All language learners tend to translate directly from their mother tongue into the language they’re learning when they first start out. It’s all part of the journey, so don’t worry if you do this at the beginning too. Once you start actually thinking in the language you’ll find it easier to formulate a sentence without having to translate it first. If you haven’t reached this breakthrough moment yet, try using Tandem’s video-chat feature to have conversations in real-time with native speakers. In these situations, you don’t generally have time to hesitate and think about what you want to say.

![watch foreign language movie](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/gnH6fahLePeonlqOb1df6/409768fbd891d260015173badd543f88/jeshoots-com-606648-unsplash-1.jpg)

## 7. Watching a foreign film without subtitles

Improving your skills by watching a film in the language you’re learning is one of our favorite top tips. It helps you get accustomed to dialects, accents and general pronunciation rules. Most likely you started off with subtitles in your native language or in the film’s original language, which is a great way to get going. When you no longer need subtitles to understand the film, you’ve absolutely made it!

## 8. Using idioms in everyday conversations

There are few better feelings than surprising someone with your knowledge of a language. One way to do this is by throwing in some [idiomatic phrases](https://www.tandem.net/impressive-idioms-to-make-you-sound-like-a-native-speaker) whenever you get the chance - it’s bound to impress! The Tandem app is a great way to get to grips with local slang as you can simply ask your Tandem partner to teach you some idioms. Using idiomatic phrases regularly in everyday conversations will make you feel like a local and give you a big confidence boost!

__Reach your language-learning breakthrough moment in no time with the Tandem app! [Download on iOS or Android now!](https://app.adjust.com/ud8gq6d)__

Breakthrough moments happen in all areas of our lives. Here's how to recognize when you have reached your language-learning breakthrough moment!

paula-may-540833-unsplash copy

Common Signs You Speak a Foreign Language Fluently

It’s true, some languages can look and sound scary. But that doesn’t mean that you’ll never be able to master them. This Halloween, we decided to survey some of our lovely Tandem members across the world to discover which languages people are frightened of learning. Here’s what we found out...

__Your language learning journey will require some helpful tools and resources to gain fluency. That is why Tandem is here to help! With the [Tandem app](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u), we connect language learners to native speakers to help them speak any language, anywhere.__

![scary languages](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/6PpOvkWDpxYiYmvbZAhAST/318d0a9829008e37c71297606ce61950/rythik-1056313-unsplash-1.jpg)

## Leading the pack as the scariest language is...

Mandarin, with 24% of respondents admitting they are most afraid to learn this language! Over a quarter (26%) of these members have concerns over the time it will take to [master Mandarin](https://www.tandem.net/learn-chinese-online), whereas only 10% can’t imagine getting their head around the grammar.

## Lurking in second place is...

**Arabic**, receiving 20% of the vote. As it turns out, most people are scared of how Arabic looks, with more than half (52%) of respondents believing they will either struggle writing the language or are not prepared to learn a new alphabet.

## Third time's a charm for…

**Japanese**! Another Asian language makes it into the top three, with 13% of Tandem’s members revealing they are hesitant to [learn Japanese](https://www.tandem.net/learn-japanese-online). The nation most afraid of learning Japanese is the United States, mainly because it’s a non-Latin alphabet and the Japanese script is quite intimidating.

## Members also have nightmares about learning...

**Finnish**, **Hungarian** and **Polish**! Considering their difficult pronunciation, spelling, and grammar, these European languages are some of the hardest in the world. Only a small percentage of respondents (8%) are worried about learning one of these languages, meaning they rank quite far behind the Asian languages and Arabic. Surprisingly **German** also ranks higher than Finnish, Hungarian or Polish, as the fifth scariest language! Let’s face it, German grammar does have a reputation for being tough and 42% of members agree, noting that they’ve heard the grammar is complicated. The fact that there are 16 different words to say “the” in German might have discouraged some language learners.

## Is your native language frightening? These are the top 10 languages that make your blood boil:

1.  Mandarin
2.  Arabic
3.  Japanese
4.  Russian
5.  German
6.  Korean
7.  Hindi
8.  Hungarian
9.  Finnish
10.  Polish

## Don't give up the ghost!

If you’re getting cold feet about tackling a difficult language, you should check out our new Halloween-themed cards! You can find them on the “Chats” section of the [Tandem](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u) app. One side shows a common misconception about the language and flipping the card upside down reveals a fact about the language that proves it's not as hard as you think to learn! Easy, right?

![rsz 201-halloween ja](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/lcsvNtU9KnmPM10F9mDt2/e4450b27764d49244f56d695e30359d6/rsz_201-halloween_ja.png)
![rsz 202-halloween de](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/7BYt336jJfv698Nlqca9fg/f7b9f7b7540d9e86fa85efda2f6d2d6f/rsz_202-halloween_de.jpg)
![rsz 203-halloween ko](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/2CeC3exMQspZ8nDOagWT39/31b99364809e05eca5e6dd2359f8c537/rsz_203-halloween_ko.png)
![rsz 04-halloween fi](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/1tFqIwAvAEXISvAwJFX3ys/2b492b4db27c2e2aa6e93a05cf1f04bd/rsz_04-halloween_fi.png)
![rsz 05-halloween ar](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/aBQ46WJAoCuPogn0IIwGl/f833a9ab60396269c6af11723e296902/rsz_05-halloween_ar.png)

Overcome your language learning fears this Halloween and tackle those difficult languages once and for all!

It’s true, some languages can look and sound scary. Here are the top 10 scariest languages to learn this Halloween voted by our very own Tandem community!

halloween-pumpkin

These are the 10 Scariest Languages to Learn this Halloween

Oktoberfest, one of the world’s largest beer festivals, will soon open its doors, welcoming visitors from far and wide. Oktoberfest-goers bond over good German beer, delicious German food and the shared desire to have fun. Amongst the oompah bands and typical chants, the beer tents are filled with echoes of “Prost!,” the German word for “cheers.” 

Regardless of whether you get the chance to travel to Oktoberfest this year, we think it’s important for everyone to know how to say “cheers” in several languages. It’s a great conversation starter when traveling, and if done correctly, it’s definitely something that will impress the locals. So here’s a little insight into the origins of saying cheers, toasting etiquettes in different countries and how to say “cheers” in eight different languages.

__Here at Tandem, we believe that the best way to learn a language is to actually speak it! That’s why we’ve developed an awesome [app](https://app.adjust.com/ud8gq6d) that allows members to connect with native speakers and practice 150+ languages. It’s not just about learning from each other, it’s also about having fun while practicing languages together.__

![giphy](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/402Wt9XGhbp0V9u57zWmoL/6b78d6b84aab1955234beff87dedeb4d/giphy.gif)

## Why do we cheers?

Cheers’ing to good health before drinking an alcoholic drink continues to be customary all around the world. But why do we actually clink glasses? Although it has proven a little difficult to unearth the exact reason where the practice of saying cheers comes from, there are a few widely held theories. 

In Medieval times, it was believed that clinking glasses would prevent you from being poisoned. If you filled your drinks right to the top, and then clinked hard, the alcohol would most likely spill into the other person’s glass. This way, you could be sure no one had slipped something into your drink while you weren’t looking. Saying cheers was also a way of warding off evil spirits. The sounds of the glasses clinking and the loud cheering would scare demons and spirits away.

## Cheers in German

As we’ve already mentioned if you want to say cheers in German you use the word “**prost**,” one of many [must-know phrases for the beer halls of Oktoberfest](https://www.tandem.net/11-bavarian-phrases-beer-halls-oktoberfest/). Beware that Germans insist on making eye contact when saying cheers. Failing to do this will result in several years of bad luck!

## Cheers in Spanish, Portuguese and French

Saying cheers in one of the Romance languages can be a little confusing. In Spanish speaking countries they say “**salud**,” in Portuguese it’s “**saúde**” and the French say “**santé**.” In each of the languages, the word translates to “(good) health,” much like the English expression.

## Cheers in Russian

Toasting plays a big role in Russian culture. If you want to propose a toast in Russian, you use the phrase “**На здоровье!**” If you’re pouring the drinks for everyone around the table, make sure to pour yours last.

## Cheers in Chinese

In Chinese, you say “**gān bēi**” (**干杯**) when clinking glasses. Similar to “bottoms up” in English, it literally translates as “dry the glass,” so it’s possible you’ll have to finish the drink quickly.

## Cheers in Japanese

The most common way to cheers in Japanese is to say “**kanpai**” **(乾杯)**. It’s mandatory etiquette to toast before taking the first sip and if you’re in the company of your seniors or your boss, you need to wait for them to make the toast first. It’s an important sign of respect.

## Cheers in English

The English word “**cheers**” originates from "chiere," an old French word meaning “face” or “head.” In the 18th century, it was recorded as a shout of support or encouragement. Today, “cheers” is an expression of good health before drinking.

Get a taste of the Oktoberfest lingo! Find out the origins of saying cheers, toasting etiquettes around the world and how to say “cheers” in 8 different languages.

Oktoberfest

Prost! Santé! Kanpai! 8 Ways to Say “Cheers” this Oktoberfest

Avid language learners are often faced with the question, “which language should I learn next?” However, no stress, [Tandem](https://app.adjust.com/ud8gq6d) has got you! Take the quiz below and read our reasons for learning a new language to see what language chooses you.

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## Reasons for learning a new language

__1. Personal Connection to the Language:__
   
The more connected you are to a language or the country where they speak it, the better. Whether you have business connections, family or friends abroad, this would be a good reason for you to invest your time into learning the language with the goal of gaining proficiency.

__2. Similarity to Your Own Language:__

Deciding on a new language to learn can also be based on which language or languages are most similar to your own. Languages come in families and share the same origins as others, so picking a language that already builds on existing knowledge makes perfect sense. For example, if you are a native Italian speaker it might be easier for you to learn Spanish next. This will help you advance faster and motivate you to continue learning.

__3. Practicality of the Language:__

Choosing a language which is widely spoken and spoken in multiple countries will keep your options open for future travel and business opportunities. Knowing that a language is popular and widely spoken will, therefore, increase your motivation to learn it. A good example of such a language is English. Spanish is also another great option since it is spoken in many countries along with Chinese as it is spoken by over one billion people.

__4. The Language Chose You:__

This one is about falling in love with a language. Whether it be the sound of the language, the people who speak it or the culture, falling in love with one aspect of a language is a great reason to start learning it.

To conclude, pick whichever language you feel most passionate about, and if all else fails then pick a really practical option. Once you have decided on a language to learn, [join](https://app.adjust.com/ud8gq6d) the Tandem community and connect with native speakers to help you reach a level of fluency.

Many keen language learners are often faced with the question, “which language should I learn next?” No stress, Tandem has got you!

road-journey-destination

/which-language-should-i-learn-next/

Which Language Should I Learn Next?

Getting started with a new language partner is always exciting, but let’s face it - it is a bit intimidating too! This is particularly true when you’re learning a brand new language from scratch. [The right etiquette](https://www.tandem.net/etiquette-tandem-language-exchange-partner) is hard to judge, but very important when establishing a friendship with someone from a different country. When you are talking to someone from a different culture, you want to be sure that you start off on the right foot and treat each other with respect from the very first moment.

If you travel a lot, you will be familiar with the painful feeling when someone does something nice for you, but you are unable to make your “thank you” understood. Don’t let that happen with your new language exchange partner! Besides, they will be thrilled to see you are making the effort in their native language from the very beginning! To help you out, we’ve asked around the community to find out the best ways to say “thank you” in 20 different languages so you never need to feel worried again. :)

__With millions of members, Tandem is one of the largest language learning communities out there! With our Tandem app, you can connect with native speakers all over the world and practice languages via text, audio message, and video call. [Download Tandem](https://app.adjust.com/4viw82u) today - it’s free!__
******

![courtney-hedger-336844-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/4hX9b207agEKqP6xjLO9RH/9e57c17c63d715a5badcf2dc0337e13c/courtney-hedger-336844-unsplash.jpg)

## 1. Thank you in English

Aside from saying a basic **thank you** (obviously), you can also shorten it to **thanks** or lengthen it to **thanks very much** or **thanks a lot**! You might also hear Brits say **cheers**, though this will confuse Americans, who only like to use cheers when they are having a drink!

## 2. Thank you in German

The most common way is **Danke schön**. This can be shortened to **Danke** or made slightly more formal as **Danke sehr**.

## 3. Thank you in Italian

Italians usually thank each other with a **grazie**. If you really want to show your appreciation, you can say **grazie mille**, or **mille grazie** - literally, a thousand thanks.

## 4. Thank you in Spanish

The most simple way to say thank you in Spanish is **gracias**. In Latin Spanish, the “c” is pronounced like an “s”, while in European Spanish, the “c” is usually more like a “th” sound. If you want to emphasize your thanks, add muchas - **muchas gracias**.

## 5. Thank you in French

A simple **merci** will usually do if you want to say thank you in French. However, **merci beaucoup** (thank you very much) is also commonly used for emphasis.

## 6. Thank you in Japanese

There are a few different ways to say thank you in Japanese, but the most common is **ありがとう** (arigatou), which is a basic thank you. **どうもありがとう** (doumo arigatou) is more polite, while **どうも** (doumo) is more casual. **どうもありがとうございます** (doumo arigatou gozaimasu) is a formal, honorific expression. Watch out though - there are various other ways of expressing thanks as well, depending on where your Tandem partner is from in Japan!

## 7. Thank you in Russian

Showing your thanks is different in Russian depending on whether you want to be formal or informal. If you want to be informal, **cпасибо** (spacibo) is the best option. If you want to be very very formal, you can use **благодарю**. However - this is really only used if you want to impress someone. If in doubt, stick to **cпасибо** or even **cпасибо большое** (spacibo bolshoye - thanks very much).

## 8. Thank you in Korean

There are several different ways of saying thank you in Korean, but in general, you will hear **감사합니다** (gamsahamnida). It is still pretty formal and polite, so suitable for strangers and people older than you. If you know someone really well, you can say **고마워요** (gomawoyo).

## 9. Thank you in Mandarin Chinese

The most common way to say thank you in Mandarin is **谢谢你** (xiè xiè nǐ). When it is spoken as xiè xiè, it means thanks while xiè xiè nǐ is thank you.

## 10. Thank you in Cantonese

In Cantonese, there are two common ways of saying thank you that are used in different situations. When someone gives you a gift, you can say **多謝你** (do1 ze6 nei5). However, when someone helps you, you would say **唔該你** ( m4 goi1 nei5). Both of them are common in Cantonese, but most likely the second would be more useful for your Tandem conversations!

## 11. Thank you in Thai

Thank you in Thai is **khop kun**. Here’s a hack for making your sentence instantly polite and respectful: add the word **khrup** (if you are female) or **ka** (if you are male) to the end of the sentence. So a politer version would be **khop kun khrup/ka**.

## 12. Thank you in Dutch

The easiest way to say thank you in Dutch is **dank je**, which covers most situations, being neither impolite nor overly formal. For a small emphasis, you can say **dank je wel**, which is more like thanks very much, or for the most sincere and heartfelt thanks, **hartelijk bedankt**.

## 13. Thank you in Portuguese

Thank you in Portuguese is **obrigado** - but only if you’re male. If you are female, you should say **obrigada**. In spoken Portuguese, the “o” is often dropped, so don’t be surprised if someone says what sounds like “brigado/a” to you in conversation.

## 14. Thank you in Swedish

Most commonly you will hear **tack** in Swedish when people want to say thank you - but there are plenty of variations on this that you can learn. **Tack så mycket** is more like thank you very much, or you can say **tusen tack** (a thousand thanks) or even **stort tack** (big thanks).

## 15. Thank you in Vietnamese

When saying thank you, Vietnamese people usually say **cám ơn** - when you are really really thankful, you can also say **cám ơn rất nhiều**, which is more like thank you very much.

## 16. Thank you in Hungarian

Hungarian is known to be a difficult language, but saying thank you isn’t too much of a challenge: **köszönöm**. **Nagyon szépen köszönöm** is used when you want to show that you are really grateful, and it has the added benefit of being polite - you can also say simply **köszönöm szépen**.

## 17. Thank you in Swahili

Thank you is a beautiful word in Swahili - **asante**. It’s easy enough to emphasize as well. Just add sana to the end, so **asante sana**.

## 18. Thank you in Hindi

There are many ways to say thank you in Hindi, but if you want to formally thank someone then you say, **धन्यवाद** (dhanyavaad). If it is informal then you say **शुक्रिया** (shukriya). Adding **बोहोत** (bohaut) before either (**बोहोत धन्यवाद/शुक्रिया** - bohaut dhanyavaad/shukriya) would make it into thank you very much.

## 19. Thank you in Arabic

Thank you in Arabic is شكرا (šukran). This is an all-purpose thank you that can be used in a variety of different scenarios. شكرا جزيلا (šokran gazīlan) is a more informal, enthusiastic thank you, rather like thank you so much.

## 20. Thank you in Czech

In the Czech language, you can thank someone by saying **děkuji**. A shortened, simple version of this (much like the English word thanks) is **díky**. 

Ever wondered how to say thank you in Spanish, French, or Arabic? We ask our community to share the best way to say thanks in 20 different languages.

/thank-you-different-languages/

How to Say "Thank You" in 20 Different Languages

Billions of us around the world are learning languages… and billions more of us would like to, but don’t. What’s stopping us? Many people feel daunted by the prospect of [learning a language](https://www.tandem.net/learn-language-fast-speaking/), particularly when it is being learned from scratch. We often hesitate to take the plunge when we focus on the reasons why it is hard to learn, rather than considering the amazing benefits of learning a language. So, it’s time to move on from some of the biggest excuses we make to ourselves when we consider getting started with a new language. 

While learning a language might not be easy, let us reassure you: there are no good reasons why you can’t meet your goal! Whether you are adding another language to your list, or are ready to conquer your first foreign language, we’re here to put any worries at ease. Here are some of the most common excuses we hear - and how they can be quickly debunked to help you reach your goals.

__Your language learning journey will require some helpful tools and resources to gain fluency. That is why Tandem is here to help! With the [Tandem app](https://app.adjust.com/ud8gq6d), we connect language learners to native speakers to help them speak any language, anywhere.__

![s-o-c-i-a-l-c-u-t-542907-unsplash copy](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/4tRO6WVlatBi9BD4fc0zHp/70e5a23950a5b3f7a5ee3b01cab90b9d/s-o-c-i-a-l-c-u-t-542907-unsplash_copy.jpg)

## Excuse 1: “I didn't learn a language at school so it’s too late for me”

It’s never too late to learn a language! Of course, there are some benefits to learning languages as a child, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t bother as an adult. Being older means you can know and respond to your own personal learning and studying styles. Age offers you the freedom and convenience to develop at a pace that suits you and set goals that are specific to your language learning needs. And of course as an adult you will have far more exciting opportunities to practice your new-found language skills!

## Excuse 2: “But my language skills are sooo basic!”

Great, you are in the right place! Do not fear if you are just a beginner in your chosen language. Every language learner starts from the same place and the only way is up! When beginning with Tandem, make use of our [language levels feature](https://www.tandem.net/language-levels-app-advice/) to select your current level. Build up your confidence by learning a few useful phrases first so you can start making conversation straight away, and then focus on using as many new words as you can. Slowly, you will build up to full sentences. 

Try using a vocabulary trainer app like Duolingo, Memrise or Busuu to help with your basic knowledge… but don’t be afraid to get stuck in with your language partner as soon as possible. You’ve got this!

## Excuse 3: “I'm too shy to speak in a foreign language"

This is a valid fear for many people, who may feel shy even in their native language, but don’t let the fear of making mistakes stop you from putting your great new skill into practice! Think of this as a great chance to increase your confidence at a pace that suits you. Tandem offers members the option to practice speaking by simply typing - a less scary way to get the ball rolling! The language learning community is a friendly environment where everyone is learning. This is a perfect way to build up some confidence, and it may even aid your confidence in other areas of life too!

## Excuse 4: “I don’t know how what to talk about”

No one wants to be lost for words, and that fear is massively amplified when you don’t know many in a certain language! When you’re new to speaking a language, a bit of preparation beforehand can really help keep nerves at bay and ensure you have plenty of ideas and [topics](https://www.tandem.net/conversation-starters-language-learners/) to chat about. Have some conversation ideas jotted down and small list of keywords you are aiming to include in your exchange. 

If you are stuck for topic ideas then have no fear, Tandem is here! When setting up your Tandem account you will have the opportunity to list your passions/hobbies and topics you wish to discuss. Topics range from members wanting to chat about ‘The meaning of life’ to ‘The best workout playlist’. This means that members can read each other's profiles, connect with a partner, and discuss the various topics that already interest you. Trust us, once you get chatting, conversation will flow!

## Excuse 5: “I’m just not a natural linguist!”

This has to be one of the biggest language myths out there. While natural linguists who love languages do exist, that doesn’t mean there’s no hope for the rest of us. The trick is to find the right tools that suit you and your learning style and go at your own pace. This way, language learning will feel fun and not like a painful chore. 

Set yourself some clear language goals and a plan of action to ensure you stay motivated. With positive thinking and motivation, you’ll stop comparing yourself to others and be able to focus on making a success of your own language learning journey. 

So there you have it: the top 5 excuses that we hear for not getting started with learning a language. It’s time to rethink those excuses and get chatting! Making use of great tools such as Tandem amongst others, you may just learn something amazing about your own language and you will definitely learn something about someone else’s.

__If you are new to the Tandem family, find out more about our community [here.](https://www.tandem.net/tandem-community-principles)__

We debunk the top 5 excuses for not learning a language, and show you why now is the time to get started with so many tools at your fingertips!

girls-mountain

5 Excuses for not Learning a Language - DEBUNKED

Here at Tandem HQ, we don’t need much of an excuse to celebrate languages and language learning. But how often do you take some time to show love for your native language? Every year on  21st February, the world celebrates [International Mother Language Day](http://www.unesco.org/new/en/international-mother-language-day/). Established by UNESCO in the year 2000, the day celebrates mother languages while also encouraging linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism.

__Here at Tandem, we believe that the best way to learn a language is to actually speak it! That’s why we’ve developed an awesome [app](https://app.adjust.com/ud8gq6d) that allows members to connect with native speakers and practice 150+ languages. It’s not just about learning from each other, it’s also about having fun while practicing languages together.__

### So what is a mother language?

Your mother language is your first language, or [native language](https://www.tandem.net/native-speakers-for-language-exchange) - the language you learned to speak organically from the world around you when you were a small child. You won't remember actively learning your mother language - you learned it intuitively, rather than consciously. If you're raised bilingual, you could have two mother languages (or even three or four, if your parents raised you that way!)

### Why should we celebrate mother languages?

When trying to learn a new language, whether for study, work or just for fun, it’s easy to forget about the role that your mother language plays. Have you ever tried to explain something about your native language - perhaps a grammar rule, or why a certain bizarre idiom means what it does - to a non-native speaker? Doing this helps you see your own language in a new light, and prepares you well to accept and understand the complexities of your second language. That is perhaps one of the best things about language exchange. 

When you share your language with someone who grew up with a different language, you learn to appreciate the cool (and perhaps trickier) bits of your own language. You would never have discovered these things otherwise! There's no better way to be shown the best bits of their language and culture in a way that would be impossible to get from a language textbook or from grammar exercises alone. 

Working with us here at Tandem is a diverse mix of people from many different countries, all bringing with them a range of different native tongues. We decided to ask a few members of Team Tandem about their relationship with their mother language, and what it means to be multilingual!

### Kim

![kim team tandem](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/5JKNsR21R0eH85wX6k7uur/66e9355abf1b03c750f73d8278ccebf0/6_web-3.jpg)

**What’s the best thing about your mother language?** My parents are from Vietnam, but I was born in Germany, so I am lucky to have two mother languages: [German](https://www.tandem.net/learn-german-online) and Vietnamese. I like that Vietnamese is a very melodic and poetic language. As for German, I think it's pretty easy to learn because we have so many grammar rules which define how to say something. I know that most foreigners will disagree, but honestly, once you crack the grammar, you will fall in love with it. My favorite sentence in German is "der Dativ ist dem Genitiv sein Tod"  (the dative is the death of the genitive) - it perfectly describes German grammar. 

**Have your language skills ever helped you out of a tricky situation?** I have ended up in the middle of nowhere so many times, especially in [China](https://www.tandem.net/partner/china), where hardly anybody speaks English. If you lose your way in the wrong district and can’t read the characters you get totally lost! I was so happy that I spoke a bit of Mandarin to be able to find the way to the next hostel or to be able to order food, and actually know what was coming to your table! 

**What’s your favorite foreign language word or phrase?** Mamahuhu (马马虎虎). It’s Mandarin. Literally translated, it means half horse, half tiger. The actual meaning is something like “so-so” (neither horse nor tiger) so you can use it to answer any question where you don’t have a clear opinion.  How is the weather? – Mamahuhu How do you like the food? – Mamahuhu  Are you in the mood to go out? – Mamahuhu :) 

**Where in the world have your language skills taken you?** Mainly Southeast Asia (China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, Bali, Vietnam, Cambodia). My Vietnamese heritage means I have always been interested in Southeast Asia, particularly the food, culture and its many languages. I also have strong ties to  France (especially Provence & Côte d’Azur) – I love the language and the country. But I also really like the US, Italy, Spain, and England. 

### Vilson

![vilson team tandem](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/5lpxqyYjRsqzIHsyodHqtT/152e0c2fcbfe102396e3799a1b1983d7/18_web-1.jpg)

**What’s the best thing about your mother language?** My mother language, Albanian, has its own unique language branch, meaning there is no known common ancestor with any other language. It sounds really unique. Speaking it is kind of like having a language superpower! 

**Have your language skills ever helped you out of a tricky situation?** Not that I remember…  but I do have a good record helping foreigners find their way with my language skills, which makes me feel great! Sometimes I’ve even been given freebies at foreign restaurants for helping them interpret between customers. 

**What’s your favorite foreign language word or phrase?** The Japanese word "ikigai" - it means reason for being, kind of like raison d’être. 

**Where in the world have your language skills taken you?** I wouldn’t say that I traveled directly because of my language skills, but being able to speak a few languages has helped me meet and talk to different people which is always nice and can be fun! And it has brought me to Berlin, which is great.

### Carolina

![3_web.jpg](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/6tXq4VAgbeNRBGq17q8S21/f000b835cedb910a674d00ad69c7ff96/3_web.jpg)

**What's the best thing about your mother language?** My mother language is [Spanish](https://www.tandem.net/learn-spanish-online). As it is a language spoken in so many countries, it is super useful when traveling. The language itself has a rich vocabulary which I love. It sounds soulful, though this depends on the accent. The one in my region is particularly pleasant - the best in my country for sure, though perhaps I'm a little biased! 

**Have your language skills ever helped you out of a tricky situation?** Yes. Language skills have helped me, for example, when for some reason there's a group of people from different countries. I enjoy acting as interpreter for them to assure every party understands exactly what is happening. This is a common situation while traveling in a big group or when I attend cultural events with local people. 

**What’s your favorite foreign language word or phrase?** My favorite Italian phrase is "In bocca al lupo", which means literally “into the wolf’s mouth”. It’s a good luck phrase for theatre and opera performers before they go on stage.  In German I love the word "die Sehnsucht" - it means desire. 

**Where in the world have your language skills taken you?** Every single step towards success in my life has been possible thanks to languages. My work as an English assistant at my university helped me save some money that was used later for traveling to Italy to do a masters degree in Computer Engineering. Afterwards, [English](https://www.tandem.net/learn-english-online) helped me again getting a job in a multinational company, and this experience allowed me to find my current job at Tandem and move to [Germany](https://www.tandem.net/partner/germany). Though many people in Berlin speak English, I'm trying to do my best to speak German. 

Our team shares the most interesting things about their native and spoken languages for International Mother Language Day.

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International Mother Language Day: What Makes Your Language Special?

Do you know your _sumo_ from your _suco_? Your _gelado_ from your _sorvete_? We interviewed our Portuguese Tutor, Nana, to find out more about Portuguese and the difference between European Portuguese and Brazilian Portuguese.

![Nana-portugues-tandem.jpg](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/6LER69jkR8t2rqZK30CPyv/edb400a33a90402699f8f08699101066/Nana-portugues-tandem.jpg)

### First off - why learn Portuguese?

You might not know that Portuguese is actually one of the most [widely spoken languages in the world](https://www.tandem.net/learn-portuguese-online/)! It’s the official language of both Portugal and Brazil, with over 218 million speakers worldwide. But aside from that, by learning Portuguese you get to connect with the fantastic culture of both Portugal and my home country, Brazil!

### But is Brazilian Portuguese the same as European Portuguese?

It’s easy to assume that the [Portuguese](https://www.tandem.net/practice-speaking-portuguese) spoken in Portugal is pretty similar to that spoken in Brazil. After all, Brazil was once a colony of Portugal, and there is a lot of shared culture between the two countries. Even when I was growing up as a native Portuguese speaker in Brazil, I never saw Portugal as very different. Sure, it’s far away, but we speak the same language, how different could it be? It’s true that the grammar is pretty similar whichever variety you are speaking. And, disregarding some words and grammar structures, written Portuguese isn’t hugely different wherever you are. 

It wasn’t until I moved to Porto to do my PhD that I started to see the real differences between the language I grew up with and the language I suddenly was struggling to understand!! The first time I really realised the difference was in a bakery on one of my first days in Portugal. I couldn’t understand anything - and they couldn’t understand me! Yet, we were speaking the same language! It just goes to show how different the two languages actually sound when spoken.

![porto houses azulejos Portugal](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/62t12L2BnyPAcTb4cnbaPp/973248762439da102dc8c69d68bb0f76/samuel-zeller-83614_small.jpg)

### But which is the best Portuguese to learn?

Now this is a very difficult and complex question. An international orthographic agreement by authorities from [Portugal](https://www.tandem.net/partner/portugal) and [Brazil](https://www.tandem.net/partner/brazil) was proposed in a bid to manage the changes seen in the language and to create a more unified Portuguese for people to learn. However, this agreement wasn't well received by some people in Portugal. Or in Brazil for that matter! For the Portuguese in particular, who are very proud of their language and don’t want it to change, the agreement was seen as very political and controversial. So basically, there’s no “real” Portuguese. As a learner, what you need to do is decide where you want to go and make sure you tell your Tutor or Tandem partner. Otherwise you could be learning words or pronunciation that no-one will understand when you finally arrive at your destination!

### Which language is easier to learn?

It should be noted that Portuguese people are way better at understanding Brazilians than we are understanding them. This is a bit strange when you consider that Portuguese existed in Portugal first! There are a few different reasons for this. 

Firstly, I think Portuguese people are quite used to meeting people from Brazil - there is a lot of immigration from Brazil to Portugal - whereas many people in Brazil will never meet a foreigner from Europe. Secondly - Brazilian culture is very integrated into Portuguese life. Brazilian music can be heard everywhere, and samba is incredibly popular. But actually, I was exposed to a lot of European Portuguese writing when I was growing up. I just didn’t realise it was from Europe. For example, I loved the writing of [Fernando Pessoa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fernando_Pessoa), [José Saramago](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/José_Saramago) and [José Maria de Eça de Queiroz](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/José_Maria_de_Eça_de_Queirós). I was very surprised to learn later on that these were not famous Brazilian writers - they are of course Portuguese! The best way to learn Portuguese is to be in touch with **both** language variations, and its people and culture. And, of course, take any opportunity to visit both countries! Truly, the easiest way to learn any language is by being motivated. For sure you will find your motivation by visiting Portugal or Brazil and learning more about our culture!

![Brazil football](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/5eS68pZGX1d5I8alhmNiBW/900f960bee99a71ee6cab62c3b5e0d76/pexels-photo-58461.jpeg)

### How does the pronunciation differ?

The pronunciation is one of the biggest differences between European Portuguese and Brazilian Portuguese. Brazilians pronounce words in a very open way; Portuguese people sound a lot more closed. Portuguese people do not pronounce all the words completely as we Brazillian do. For example the word "excellent_"_ in English, The Portuguese would pronounce it "xcelent" while we would say "excelente".

With other words that have the syllables “di”, “ti”, “te”, “de”, most of the time Brazilians pronounce these quite sweetly, I would say. For example, the word “bom dia”: good morning”. In general, Portuguese people would pronounce “di” like this ði, and Brazilians would pronounce di: dʒi. The same happens with the sound ti. Portuguese: just “ti” Brazilian: "tʃi" Of course, Brazil is a huge country and this can be different in some regions. For example in the North of Brazil, they pronounce the syllables “ti” and “di” in a similar way to Portuguese people. It’s the same even in Portugal, a far smaller country: people from the north and south sometimes sound totally different! 

Another thing to look out for is how we pronounce “L” when it isn’t followed by another vowel, as in the word “Brasil” or “Alguém” (someone). Brazilian people will pronounce it as “u” but Portuguese pronounce the “l” quite clearly. So it sounds like: Portuguese: Brasil, alguém Brazilian: Brasiu, auguém The sound of “s” is another big difference. While Portuguese say it “ʃ” we (aside from people from Rio de Janeiro) will say just “s”. For me, and other Brazilians, it is very cute when Portuguese people say words like “piscina” - swimming pool - because they will pronounce the “s” like“ʃ”. 

One final thing - I believe Brazilian Portuguese in general is more musical than European Portuguese. I can’t really write it down, but you can definitely recognise it when you hear people speak. I could say that the Portuguese speak in a straight line, and we in curves :)

![Portugal bridge](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/2G2sCx9JQ4oPRxmuhoC65o/5d9de40fcfe558a6b029be6afbe6b32c/pexels-photo-290141.jpeg)

### Which words are different?

There are many words that change, depending on which kind of portuguese you are speaking. Some of these, like "abacaxi" (BR) vs "ananas" (PT) - pineapple in English - are because of the influence of indigenous culture in Brazil. Some are more grammatical - like that Brazilians prefer to use the gerund of the verb when describing continuous situations, whereas European Portuguese speakers use the infinitive. Sometimes, getting the wrong word can be REALLY embarrassing. One notable example is the word for “girl” in European Portuguese - "rapariga". If you use this word in Brazil, people are likely to get offended… because it is a VERY rude word for a woman! Yikes.

### Any final tips on how to learn Portuguese?

If you like singing and dancing, this is the right language for you! Whether Brazilian or European, almost every Portuguese speaker knows [Chico Buarque](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=suia_i5dEZc), [Caetano Veloso](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j9UbE1slI-Q), [Ivete Sangalo](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0tafa3b6OFI) and [Seu Jorge](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m3bUU7U8oPo). Listening to their music is a great way to learn more about the language. And of course, make sure you have a [Tandem partner to practice](https://www.tandem.net/practice-speaking-portuguese/) with :)

Thanks Nana, You are a Tutor superstar!

**If you would like to learn Portuguese with Nana on Tandem, choose Portuguese as a learned language on your profile and look for Nana in the Tutor tab. **

Is the Portuguese spoken in Brazil the same as the Portuguese in Portugal? We find out the differences in an interview with our Tutor for Portuguese, Nana.

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What’s the Difference Between European and Brazilian Portuguese?

In an ideal world, you would decide one day that you wanted to learn a language, then a few days later you would be perfectly fluent. If only it was that simple! It is so easy to have unrealistic expectations of how quickly you make progress when you begin learning a language. Sadly, it’s not possible to learn a language completely overnight, or even in a few weeks. Maybe if you are totally immersed in the language, or possess very good memory skills, you could learn a lot in a short space of time, but for most people [learning a language takes hard work](https://www.tandem.net/how-long-it-takes-to-learn-a-language) and dedication over a longer period. 

We can agree that learning a language fluently can feel like an impossible task. However, *speaking* a language should definitely not feel like this! And starting speaking is one thing that is guaranteed to speed up your language acquisition process - and get you closer than ever to fluency. 

In a recent study from language school [Sprachcaffe](http://www.sprachcaffe.com/english/sc-sustainability-project.htm), over 90% of the 2000 students studied said that they found interaction with other people to be the most useful resource for learning. This comes as no surprise to us here at Tandem, as we’ve long been advocates for getting people speaking in foreign languages! Once, this was only an option for people who had the time and money to travel to their country of choice and practice with native speakers, or invest in a great teacher. 

Today, with the [Tandem app](https://app.adjust.com/ud8gq6d), you can turn on your phone and be chatting to someone on the other side of the world in seconds. It is a great opportunity to improve speaking early on in the language learning journey without time or financial constraints. So what benefits does speaking practice have for your language learning? 

### It helps build confidence

Without confidence, it will always be a struggle to make yourself understood clearly. The more you talk, the more you will get used to putting yourself out there. If you have more positive experiences when speaking your target language, you will quickly find speaking it a joy, rather than a stress.

### You start seeing grammar in action

Textbooks are great for understanding the theory and “why” behind grammar rules. But hearing (and using) them in action is quite another thing. Many native speakers will be much more flexible with grammar rules than your textbook would suggest, and the only way to get used to this is by lots and lots of talking. 

### It is a chance to make mistakes... and learn from them

Many people get put off speaking because of a fear of making mistakes and looking a bit silly when they are in the early stages of language learning. Actually, mistakes can be very helpful if you want to learn quickly - but only if you are ready to learn from them! Asking your partner to only [correct certain mistakes](https://www.tandem.net/app-advice-correct/) is a good way to take the pressure off and make sure your language practice is really focused on what you want to practice.

### You get used to thinking on your feet

Learning phrases by rote can get some quick rewards. But what do you do when someone replies with a response you weren’t expecting? Getting speaking early on in your language learning journey helps you to get used to thinking quickly of a creative response, rather than churning out the same tired phrases. In the real world, you don’t have several minutes to think about the perfect response, so you need to practice in this environment as much as possible.

### It gives you concrete evidence that you are improving

While many learn languages to pass exams or tests, many more learn them to communicate with other people. In a way, every successful conversation is a bit like passing an exam! Speaking with different people will show you how much you have improved, and what elements you need to focus on to keep progressing.

### You start living the language, not just learning it

Why are you learning a language? Is it so you can say you read a textbook once? Or is it so you can [use it in your job](https://www.tandem.net/10-incredible-careers-languages/), or travel, or communicate with family and friends? Languages are for living, and the sooner you start living your language, the better. Finding people to communicate with and getting talking is the best way to make the language an important part of your life from day one!

Have we convinced you that it’s time to put the books to one side and get speaking? Download [Tandem](https://app.adjust.com/ud8gq6d) for iOS and Android today and be chatting with new language partners in minutes.

Speaking is the key to quick foreign language acquisition! On Tandem there are millions of members waiting to help you improve :)

learn languages speaking

Want to Learn a Language Quickly? Get Speaking!

Are you fluent in Emoji? 😎 [World Emoji Day](http://worldemojiday.com/) is celebrated on 17th July (a date chosen because the calendar emoji looks like this: 📅 ). At last count, we had over 45,000 members of the Tandem community who consider themselves to be “native Emoji speakers”🤓. So there’s a good chance you are one of them!

![emojis](//images.ctfassets.net/2j65dwz7bf88/4T3I1WGKAW4LIzksuePhEw/2090410584b89a965c61ad10db178756/emoji_ios.png)

Emoji isn’t usually considered to be a foreign language, but we felt it was an important one to include. Why? Because emojis are INCREDIBLY USEFUL for language learners! We’re not expecting you to be replacing languages fully with emojis, but there is no denying that they can be used in lots of different ways when learning with a partner.

__Improving your language skills doesn’t have to be boring… Have fun with conversation exchange! Tandem is not only a language exchange [app](https://app.adjust.com/ud8gq6d), but it is also a community where our members feel empowered to speak any language, anywhere.__

Here are 5 ways emojis can save your life when learning a language:

### 1. Avoiding translation

Emojis come into their own during the early stages of learning a language. There is an emoji picture for many simple words and phrases, so it can be a very useful tool indeed for teaching beginners. “Russian, for example, has lots of verbs for movement which you use with different modes of transport. It’s SO difficult to teach! So I like to use all the different transport emojis to help… the 🛫 and 🛬 are particularly helpful when talking about flights!” says Igor, 24. See our blog [here](https://www.tandem.net/avoid-translation-language-exchange) on some other alternatives to translating!

### 2. Diffusing tension

Ahh, we’ve all been there. You get a message from your Tandem partner and you think, “Did they really mean to say that?!” It can be really hard to express things in the subtle way you would in your own language. Luckily, emojis are the universal tension diffuser. Tandem member May, 23, explains: “Actually I use emojis to communicate when things get a little awkward - say my partner doesn’t understand what I’m saying, or I made a mistake. A simple 😂 goes a long way to diffuse any tension and help communication. It’s my favourite emoji!”

### 3. Signalling humour

If you’ve ever spent time abroad, you’ll know that humour is something that differs from country to country. But that is also something that often gets lost in translation! There’s nothing worse than a joke falling flat. That’s why our members often like to use emojis liberally to show exactly when they are making a joke. “I use the 😉 way more often when speaking in my second language,” says Moritz, 18. “I don’t think I’m a funnier guy, but I definitely find them useful to show that I’m trying to be funny at least! I just hope my Tandem partner appreciates my efforts at comedy!”

### 4. Shortcut with complex scripts

Learning a new script can be really difficult when you first start out. Imagine going from Spanish to Chinese, or from Korean to Georgian, or from Bengali to Russian! If you’re having a video conversation with your Tandem partner and you want to write and explain something quickly, sometimes using emoji is the quickest and most effective way of doing this rather than having to change keyboards and work out how to say something (especially when you’re still relatively new to the written language). This is one of the reasons emojis have taken off to such a huge degree in countries with complex scripts, like China.

### 5. To share our emotions when words aren’t enough

Even when you are speaking to someone native in your language, most of us often find scenarios where an emoji speaks louder than words. Imagine you just mispronounced a word and said something totally inappropriate by mistake. Or you accidentally ate your least favorite vegetable. Or you saw something you didn’t want to see = 🙈 . Tandem member Victoria tells us, “When it comes to [conversation exchang](https://www.tandem.net/language-exchange)e, it is so helpful to be able to express your emotions fast. My favourite emoji is the 🙃 which I use when I am being a bit sarcastic. It’s a good way of showing complex emotions really quickly!”

Could we see emoji replacing written language completely? Unlikely. But surely anything that helps us communicate more easily across languages and cultures is a good thing! 💩 

Happy World Emoji Day! We celebrate by looking at how emojis are used in our community to help people learn a foreign language.

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5 Ways Emojis Help You Learn a Foreign Language

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