Many people assume that learning a foreign language in your adult years will be much more challenging. ‘It’s so much easier when you’re young’ you may hear. The reality is different.
Yes, you can learn to speak Spanish easily as a child. You don’t have the daily distractions that come with being an adult. But the chances are you are more focused and driven now than ever, certainly more than you were as a teenager.
Also, if you plan to travel to any of the many Spanish-speaking countries, you can appreciate just how useful your classes will be.
Read on to discover the twelve most recommended tips to learn Spanish as an adult.
1. Choose the Right Learning Method
The first and crucial step in your Spanish learning journey is selecting the right method that aligns with your preferences, schedule, and budget.
Don’t commit to an hour of language lessons per day for 6 months if this is not feasible for you. You’ll burn out, spend a huge amount of money, and feel disheartened if your improvement level dips.
Try a range of learning styles to start with. Study from textbooks, watch Spanish TV shows and movies, book an online class with a tutor, or attend night school. You’ll soon start to realize what works best for you.
A personalized approach will make your language learning experience more effective and enjoyable in the long term. This of this as a marathon, not a sprint.
2. Practice Regularly
Talk to any bilingual or multilingual individual, and they will tell you that consistent practice is the key to mastering any language. Of course, Spanish is no different.
Allocate dedicated time each day to practice your skills, whether through listening to podcasts, watching Spanish movies, or engaging in conversations with native speakers.
Regular practice not only enhances language retention but also builds confidence, which is a massive factor when it comes to improving your language skills.
3. Be Proactive in Building Your Vocabulary
Possessing a strong vocabulary is essential for fluency in any language. Challenge yourself to learn new Spanish words daily and try to integrate them into your conversations.
Doing so is really simple. You can also utilize popular language learning apps to expand your vocabulary and reinforce your understanding of words in various contexts, but you can also use a ton of free resources.
Check out sites like Wordreference.com to see how to use words in context, and watch videos on YouTube relating to Spanish vicabulary in various subject areas.
4. Focus on Grammar
You may hear people tell you that they want to become fluent in a language without learning the grammar.
While you can definitely reach a conversational level in Spanish without understanding the grammar, doing so would be a waste and hinder progress further down the line.
Grammar forms the foundation of language, and Spanish is no exception. There is simply no way around it. Try to devote time to understanding and practicing grammar rules, applying them in both spoken and written communication.
Furthermore, explore grammar resources, online courses, language apps, and online platforms like Lingopie to reinforce your grasp of Spanish grammar. With Lingopie, you can even turn on your AI generated grammar coach, which will tell you why certain words or phrases are used in context.
5. Take Advantage of Technology
In addition to the best of all form (face to face conversation) don’t shy away from the rapidly expanding world of technology.
This means explore language learning apps, online platforms, and social media to supplement your learning experience. By doing so, you can come across new content daily.
Lingopie can be of great help whether you are a beginner, intermediate, or advanced learner.
By signing up to Lingopie, you can watch your favorite TV shows and learn Spanish along the way with a dual-subtitle feature, a flashcard feature, a grammar coach, and much more.
Try to incorporate Spanish subtitles into movies and TV shows to enhance your listening comprehension skills.
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Ximena Lama-Rondon
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6. Be Patient with Yourself
Learning a new language is a gradual process, and patience is crucial. Be sure to celebrate small victories along the way and don't be discouraged by initial challenges (of which there will be many).
Remember that every step forward is progress, and with perseverance, you'll achieve your goal of speaking Spanish with fluency.
7. Find a Language Partner
When you have already developed some level of conversation skill, or at least begun to understand how to form sentences in Spanish, try to connect with fellow Spanish learners or native speakers through language exchange programs or online communities.
Having language partners provides opportunities for authentic conversations, allowing you to practice and refine your Spanish skills in a supportive environment.
You can do so by using platforms like Reddit, Tandem, and by browsing Facebook groups.
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8. Leverage Interesting Stories and Children's Books
This one isn’t obvious and it’s something adults like you probably shy away from. After all, no adult actually enjoys reading material that’s been made for kids, right?
But reading children’s books and watching kids’ TV shows are a learning method that all beginners should try out at least once. And the reason for this is actually pretty obvious.
The vocabulary used in these types of media tends to be much more beginner friendly. Check out the Lingopie Kids feature to find a wide library of engaging video content appropriate for beginner learners.
Getting into this habit regularly can significantly enhance your language skills.
9. Overcome Shyness
If you're a shy person, overcoming the fear of speaking is an essential aspect of learning any language. If you do not enjoy conversing with others, it’s highly unlikely you’ll see rapid improvement, at least when it comes to speaking.
Start by practicing with a language partner, join language exchange programs, and gradually build the confidence to engage in conversations with native speakers.
10. Learning from English Speakers
This is a simialr to a language exchange, except this time you’re looking for a fellow English speaker.
Connect with other people who are also learning Spanish and see what works for them. You’d be amazed how many people are in the same position as you. Share resources, tips, tricks and guides.
This is a great way to motivate each other and build a community of learners in a short space of time.
11. Enjoy Reading Comprehension
Expand your reading comprehension skills by exploring a variety of texts, from news articles to literature. You can find pretty much any book translated into Spanish.
Dual language books are also great resources, as you can flick between Spanish on one page with the English translation on the other.
By following this method, you’ll gradually progress from simpler texts to more complex ones, and find yourself able to comprehend and analyze a wide range of written content in Spanish.
12. Prioritizing Speaking Skills
While all aspects of language learning are crucial, prioritize developing your speaking skills. Failing to do so is one of the biggest mistakes that new learners make.
After all, you’re doing this so that you can speak Spanish, right?
Actively engage in conversations, participate in language exchange programs, and practice speaking regularly to build confidence and fluency.
Accelerating the Learning Process
If you're eager to learn Spanish faster, consider enrolling in an intensive course. While the learning process isn’t something that can be rushed, it’s better to take an intensive course than study only a small amount every day.
Explore opportunities to study in South America or Spain, where immersive experiences can significantly accelerate the language learning process, or find local language classes in your hometown or city.
FAQs
Now that you know where to start when it comes to learning Spanish, let’s focus on some commonly asked questions relating to the topic.
Is it possible to learn Spanish fluently as an adult?
Yes, adults can learn Spanish fluently. With dedication, practice, and the support of popular language learning apps, adults can achieve proficiency. These apps offer interactive lessons, enhance Spanish vocabulary, and provide exposure to native Spanish speakers, making the learning process accessible and enjoyable.
How long should it take an adult to learn Spanish?
The time it takes for an adult to learn Spanish varies. Factors such as dedication, practice frequency, and prior language learning experience influence the duration. Utilizing popular language learning apps and immersing oneself in the Spanish-speaking world can expedite the learning process, leading to quicker fluency.
Is it hard to learn Spanish when you are older?
Learning Spanish as an older individual is not inherently challenging. While it may require consistent effort, the use of effective language learning apps, exposure to native Spanish speakers, and engaging with Spanish subtitles can make the process enjoyable and overcome any perceived challenges associated with age.
Can you learn Spanish after 30?
Absolutely! Learning Spanish after 30 is not only possible but also rewarding. Utilize language courses, maybe try our popular language-learning app, and immerse yourself in the Spanish-speaking world (preferably with a native Spanish speaker). Embrace opportunities to interact with native speakers, use Spanish subtitles, and witness how your dedication can lead to acquiring Spanish proficiency at any age.
Summing up: How to Learn Spanish as an Adult
Learning Spanish as an adult is an exciting and rewarding journey that requires dedication, patience, and a personalized approach.
By incorporating these tips into your language learning strategy, you'll not only master Spanish more quickly, but also enjoy the process, unlock new cultural experiences and a wide range of cognitive benefits along the way.
Sign up to a free trial on Lingopie today and see just how quickly you can start to learn Spanish by watching Spanish movies and TV shows.
¡Buena suerte!
