Learning a new language can have its own set of challenges when there is no clear starting point. Here are some apps that can help you get started or if you need a hand in brushing up your learning!

Duolingo

Duolingo comes with over 35 languages to learn from and in a format that is highly organised and structured so you can pick up from where you started or go back to review your progress. You can also take your learning anywhere, from the computer in the comfort of your home to on the go with your mobile device. If you are new to learning a language, it will start off with learning the bare basics. If you are experienced, you can take a simple test to understand what level you are currently. The lessons can be done on your own pace or if you are looking to fast track your learning, there is a paid membership option called ‘Super Duolingo’ starting with a two-week free trial for those new to the app. The membership removes advertisements and gives you multiple opportunities to work on your mistakes, as it tracks them as you learn.

Babbel

Babbel can take your learning of a language to a whole new level. It offers 13 languages to choose from in the form of two courses: ‘Babbel App’ where you can study by yourself and ‘Babbel Live’ where you can learn with worldclass teachers in a class setting. Additionally, it offers a wide range of content tailored to your learning journey. It also provides podcasts for a few languages and for different levels so you can give it a try to follow along the conversation in the language you are learning. Before paying for a membership, you can test out a small portion of the program for free. Overall, it is a great app for people who are experienced with language learning or for those looking for a challenge.

Rosetta Stone

Rosetta Stone is a premium program that offers an immersive experience with their live coaching service with native speakers, giving immediate feedback. They offer solutions for individuals, enterprise and schools, catering to all stages of the learning journey. When you begin your learning, the service allows you to choose which type of vocabulary you want to build. For example, Travel, Work, Family, Basic and Beyond; teaching you both informal and formal scenarios. Rosetta Stone is perfect for beginners who need to build a solid foundation for vocabulary and grammar. For those who are more experienced, there are additional elements that you can explore to improve your fluency.

Memrise

When it comes to learning new characters and basic vocabulary, Memrise helps you in your language learning journey. While there are other subjects that you can learn from, language learning is its focus; offering 14+ languages to learn from. Memrise is interactive by giving you exercises and quizzes, enhancing your learning journey. There is a Pro subscription that gives you more exercises to learn and more features like offline access, which can come in handy when you are on the road and there are no signs of data. Memrise prides itself by using language in real-world contexts and personalizes the learning course based on your interests. It gives you an ample number of tools and the ability to stop and start learning any language the app has to offer for free.

Lingoda

Lingoda sets itself apart from the language learning applications as it offers classes with real people where they push you beyond your comfort zone to express your thoughts instead of just translating words. Lingoda is an online service that utilises the popular meeting program, ‘Zoom’, for their language classes. The service offers three languages to choose from, all verified on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). To use the service, you will need to make a payment depending on what classes that are available on certain days and times. You can choose from either in a small group of five or a one-to-one class with instructors. When using this service to learn, there is a presumption that you will put in time to study and learn on your own beyond the materials given from Lingoda. When it comes to class time, you should come prepared to practice what you know and learn more along the way.

You can pair any of these apps and services to make sure you have taken on board all the lessons they have to offer. If you are willing to achieve true fluency, try practicing with your loved ones or friends and attend local classes to help you solidify your learning!