I know vaguely of the science of linguistics and I want to actually try my hand at seriously attempting to learn a language. Unfortunately, linguists keep throwing a bunch of words at my brain like "syntax" and "conjugation" and "grammar trees" that just... go over my fucking head. Is it better to try and learn the structure of one particular language at a time or will understanding linguistics first give me a better edge? And if so, where do I start if I want to sit down and actually try to fluently understand a second language?

  • Quimby [any, any]
    ·
    2 years ago

    So, you're sort of talking about two different things. Linguistics is differently from learning a language. My study of linguistics had me taking courses in anthropology, computer science, cognitive science, and philosophy, if that gives you an idea.

    For learning a language, meanwhile, there's different approaches, but it's generally good to have something that is immersive to some extent.

    • Ho_Chi_Chungus [she/her]
      ·
      2 years ago

      I understand those are two different things but as a native English speaker with virtually no IRL experience with foreign language, I don't really have much of an option to start off with other than book learning unless I want to pay money for a course which uhhh... costs money I don't have. Personally, I'd like to have the best possible understanding of what it takes to learn a language as well as actually trying to learn one. So I guess a better question is: Where do I learn how to learn a language?

      • Quimby [any, any]
        ·
        2 years ago

        learning a langauge is mostly about exposure and time.

        my suggestion for langauge learning on a budget would be to maybe start by watching kids shows. it sounds silly, but if you think about it, they are educational, use common. basic words, speak slowly...

        So go watch, say French Sesame Street or something. (There are a lot of countries that have their own Sesame Street!)

        You end up getting some cultural exposure this way too.

        But it's still a time commitment. If you're watching French Sesame Street, watch it with French subtitles too. What you typically want to avoid when learning a langauge is doing translation back and forth between the language and your native langauge.