One of the most effective ways to learn Spanish to the point of fluency is by becoming immersed in the Spanish language. Gaining exposure to written and spoken Spanish will be extremely helpful, if not essential, in order to speak the language fluently.
That being said, if you can't travel to a Spanish-speaking country or even read Spanish literature, do not panic! Watching videos, TV shows and movies is an engaging and productive way to master the Spanish language without getting on an airplane or having to dive into lengthy novels.
And, if you're looking for an innovative platform to gain access to a wide range of video content, why not sign up for a free trial with Lingopie?
1. Get used to hearing native Spanish speakers
When it comes to language learning, one of the main reasons that it's so effective to watch videos is that you become accustomed to hearing the sounds, rhythm, and phonetics of the target language. When you listen to spoken Spanish, your brain absorbs the words passively.
Listening to native Spanish speakers interact with each other means that you'll be working towards becoming conversationally fluent in Spanish.
By practicing your listening skills more directly, you'll start to identify certain words and expressions and associate them with sound. This, in turn, will help you with your own pronunciation.
In addition, you’ll improve other language competencies, such as comprehension, on both a subconscious and practical level. Great, right?
2. Watch movies and TV shows that interest you
One of the decisive factors in any language learning process is being able to stay motivated. Since learning languages can be quite a long and difficult process, it’s highly important not to lose your drive before achieving your goal.
That is why, as you're learning Spanish with video, we would recommend that you choose movies and TV shows that actually interest you, rather than focusing solely on learning the Spanish language.
By doing so, you won’t be watching purely for educational purposes, which means you’ll have less tendency to give up as you go along.
This will optimize your learning since you will be able to apply that same vocabulary in practice. There are dozens of popular Spanish language channels through which to find popular content. With Lingopie, you can even take Spanish lessons whilst watching TV for fun!
3. Use subtitles
Subtitles can be an incredible asset when learning foreign languages through video and they provide a great way to practice Spanish. When you read Spanish words, you match their pronunciation to how they are written.
By using subtitles to learn a new language through video, you'll not only develop your reading skills but also boost your pronunciation.
Whether you are watching on the Lingopie platform or simply trying to learn languages with YouTube, active subtitles in Spanish whenever you can - and in the English language if necessary. You'll surprise yourself with how much you understand.
In fact, if you sign up for Lingopie you'll even have access to a dual subtitle feature, whereby you'll see both the original subtitles in Spanish and their translation into English.
4. Practice pronouncing the vocabulary you hear
By watching video content or listening to Spanish podcasts, you'll make use of a versatile tool to learn Spanish. Make the most of it by practicing vocabulary consciously after you've watched a movie or a show, whether it's from Spain or South America.
This means taking one step closer to spoken Spanish fluency.
If you can, find an online native Spanish teacher or language partner to complement your language learning journey. This way you'll reach conversational fluency faster.
5. Use video as a way to immerse yourself culturally
Cultural immersion is another important aspect of reaching conversational Spanish. Learning Spanish isn't just about linguistics, it's also about becoming culturally proficient and understanding the traditions, customs, and habits of native Spanish speakers.
On this note, it’s also important to distinguish between all the Spanish-speaking countries. Mexico won’t be culturally identical to Spain, Argentina, or even Peru. Be sure to know from where the content you’re watching originates.
Check out this guide on the Spanish dialects.
The best 3 movies to learn Spanish through video
Neverfilms
This web series is perfect to watch if you're looking for a good laugh! It consists of a series of parodies of trailers for well-known TV shows and films which feature the same actors over and over. They all work at the same office under the same quirky boss.
The episodes are short and therefore quite easy to watch. Since the show contains references that are relevant to global culture worldwide, it's perfect for beginners looking to start their Spanish language journey.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
You can expect to learn a wide variety of vocabulary depending on which TV shows and movies are being parodied in each episode.
Living it Up
For the film enthusiasts out there, this is an excellent choice when learning Spanish. This movie is about what happens when life changes up your plans!
A bus driver has decided to commit suicide and borrows money from the mafia to throw a lavish farewell party before taking his own life... However, to his surprise, he falls in love with a waitress before carrying out his final act.
What will he do now? Take a step towards Spanish fluency by watching Living it Up and you'll find out!
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
And, as you'll see, you can get pretty far with that skill.
Xino Xano in Costa Rica
Travel to Spanish-speaking countries throughout Latin America in the company of this fun couple. If you enjoy documentary-style travel shows, then you'll love this series.
It's fun and engaging, with short episodes that are manageable for beginners. This is an all-around experience that will not only teach you how to speak Spanish but will also give you insights into the culture of different Spanish-speaking countries.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
Finally, you'll learn grammar in a fun and natural way (which is key if you want to speak Spanish without making errors).
FAQs Relating to becoming fluent in Spanish
If you're looking to learn Spanish as a foreign language, then you'll surely have some burning questions coming up in your mind.
We've decided to anticipate a few of them and have answered them for you below so that you have all the information you need to speak fluent Spanish in no time!
How long does it take to become fluent in Spanish?
According to the US State Department, it takes 575-600 hours to learn Spanish as an English native speaker. How you spread those out will depend on your availability and commitment!
Bear in mind that you will have to be consistent in order to see progress and tangible results when learning Spanish.
Is Spanish easy to become fluent in?
For English speakers, Spanish is actually one of the easiest languages to learn! So, achieving Spanish fluency could be considered easy.
Both English and Spanish belong to the Indo-European language family and actually share the same alphabet. Furthermore, both languages have a lot of common vocabulary that stems from Latin.
Can I learn fluent Spanish in a year?
Every learning style is different and we all learn at different speeds, but the short answer to this question is yes! However, you will have to put in the time and effort to make that happen.
If you're able to use video content to learn actively, then you will surely be able to reach your goal within the proposed time frame.
Summing Up: How to become fluent in Spanish with video
As we've laid out in this article, there are several strategies that you can use to become fluent in Spanish by watching video content and using it productively to your advantage.
While learning Spanish, use certain tools like subtitles and a flashcard app. Pick TV shows and movies that you're actually interested in, and practice the words and expressions that you learn while watching. You'll be well on your way to becoming fluent in Spanish.
Don't hesitate to sign up for a free trial with Lingopie to have access to varied video content and effective language learning features!
