If you are currently learning a foreign language, you might want to try to use language apps. Here’s what you need to know…
Language apps for language learners
Finding the best way to improve and practice your target language for English learners can often seem overwhelming. There are so many different learning methods available that it can be hard to know which is best.
This is where language apps come in handy. From grammar checkers to vocabulary trainers, there are now various ways to improve your target language using technology.
But are these language apps worth your time? Do they work? And more importantly, which ones should you choose?
Let’s look at some of the most popular options and see if these apps are right for you…
What are language apps?
A language app, or language-learning app, is software designed to help you learn, practice, and improve a language. Most apps revolve around audio and written content, but some games and apps are for other senses.
All of them are designed with the language learner in mind, and most are free or inexpensive. Language apps are excellent for beginners and intermediate learners, but advanced users may find that app alone isn’t enough to meet their needs.
Language-learning apps: what to look for
How will the language apps help you learn? What’s the best way to use the app?
These are important questions when deciding which language apps are right for you. The best apps for language learning are those that are most applicable to your needs and learning style.
When choosing a language app, ask yourself these questions:
- Is the app designed for beginners, intermediates, or advanced learners?
- What’s the best way to use the app?
- What are the strengths of the app?
- What are the weaknesses of the app?
- What type of learner are you?
Bilingual dictionaries and dictionaries for learners
If you’re looking for a single learning app to help you improve your vocabulary and language skills, bilingual dictionaries and dictionaries designed for language learners may be what you’re looking for.
Dictionaries for learners are great for beginners who want to build up vocabulary and are studying a language at a beginner or intermediate level.
They’re also helpful for advanced learners who might want to learn more about the finer points of their language, such as idioms, cultural references, and colloquialisms.
Bilingual dictionaries are especially useful when you’re translating from your native language into another language. When choosing a dictionary, look for the following features:
- Does the dictionary include audio pronunciation for all words and phrases?
- Is it comprehensive and up-to-date? – Is the interface easy and intuitive to use?
- Does the dictionary allow you to build your vocabulary lists?
Immersion platforms: listen, speak, and chat with natives
Immersion is one of the best ways to learn a language, and there are plenty of language apps out there designed to put you right in the middle of the language you’re trying to learn.
Immersion platforms allow you to listen to audio clips in your target language and then translate and write back as you listen. These are great if you want to improve your listening comprehension, pronunciation, and writing skills.
These platforms are also great places to meet and make friends with other language learners. Many of them allow you to chat with natives in the language you’re studying, which is a great way to build confidence and fluency.
When choosing an immersion app, look for the following features:
- Is the audio clear and easy to understand?
- Is the app easy to use?
- Does it have a social component?
- What are the strengths of the app?
- What are the weaknesses of the app?
- What type of learner are you?
Flashcards and vocabulary trainers
Flashcards are an old-fashioned but excellent way to improve your grammar and vocabulary. They can be used in paper or digital forms, and many language apps include flashcard-like functions.
Some even allow you to build custom decks and tailor them to your specific needs or vocabulary.
- Is the app easy to use?
- Does it have a social component?
- What are the strengths of the app?
- What are the weaknesses of the app?
- What type of learner are you?
Grammar checkers
Grammar checkers allow you to write in your target language and check your work for grammar and spelling errors. These are perfect for advanced learners who want to keep an eye on their grammar and are studying at an intermediate level or above.
- What are the strengths of the app?
- What are the weaknesses of the app?
- What type of learner are you?
Language apps are excellent tools to help you learn a language like French, German, Italian, or Spanish while on the go, whether you’re commuting to work or traveling abroad. They’re also great for practicing and improving language skills at home or on the weekends.
If you’re looking to improve your target language, a language app might be just what you’re looking for. They’re easy to use, fun to explore, and, best of all, completely free!
