Less than you think!
When we ask: “Is it possible to learn a language in a short time?”, the answer is not clear. But before we explore this question, it is worth defining what we mean by “learning.”
What is language learning?
Learning a language is the process of acquiring the ability to communicate efficiently in a language. However, it is important to remember that it is virtually impossible to learn a language in its entirety, from A to Z. Even native speakers and certified translators are constantly expanding their vocabulary.
Therefore, in this article, we will focus on learning the language in the context of everyday communication.
Whether you learn on your own or with the help of a teacher or language coach is also of some importance. Self-learning can be very effective, provided you use the right methods. In my e-book “Effective Language Learning For Everyone,” I discuss the most effective strategies for learning any language, thanks to which I learned English, Spanish, German, Russian, Portuguese, French, and Indonesian.
In this article, I answer the questions: “Is it possible to learn a language …
- …in a week?
- …in a month?
- …in 3 months?
- …in 6 months?
- …in 12 months?
What does the language learning time depend on?
The time needed to learn a language depends on many factors, such as:
- Mother tongue: Learning a foreign language that is closely related to our native language is usually easier. Different grammatical structures, articulation (pronunciation) and different writing will prolong the length of the learning process.
- Methods of learning: There are many methods of language learning, and choosing the right one can make a significant difference in learning time.
- Level of motivation: The more motivated you are to learn, the faster you will reach your goals.
- Amount of time spent learning: Regular practice and contact with the language are key to effective learning.
Ready to have your questions answered? Let’s get started!
Is it possible to learn a language in a week?
Learning a language in a week is unlikely, but it is possible to plan the learning process and become familiar with the characteristics of a language in a week. The former in particular plays a key role in our later linguistic success.
Is it possible to learn a language in a month?
Learning a language in a month is a realistic goal if we know a similar language at a high level. For example, if we know Portuguese fluently, we will reach a communicative level in Spanish very quickly. Similarly, a Pole learning Slovak will make progress at an incredible rate.
Is it possible to learn a language in 3 months?
3 months is enough time to reach A2 level, which allows us to communicate in many life situations. This is especially true for languages close to our mother tongue, but even with slightly more distant ones we can count on real results in this time.
Is it possible to learn a language in six months?
From my experience and that of my clients, it is possible to reach B1 level in six months, which allows fluent communication in most life situations. Of course, the results may be less spectacular in the case of languages very different from our mother tongue (e.g., an American learning Chinese).
Is it possible to learn a language in a year?
A year is a great time to learn the language and reach the B1+/B2 level, which allows you to communicate freely in a variety of situations, including at work and in private life.
Summary
The above time periods are indicative only. The actual time to learn a language may be shorter or longer, depending on individual aptitude, commitment and other issues raised earlier.
Learning a language is a process that requires patience, commitment and appropriate strategies. The amount of time it takes to achieve proficiency in a language varies depending on many factors, but it is important to be realistic and consistent in your goal.
This article was written in response to an inquiry from one of you.
Do you have a question? Email me!
