What you need to know before you start
Italian is a romance language with only 19 different vowel sounds, which is less than in English, German, Dutch, and Norwegian. Grammar is similar between Italian and English in many ways too.
If you know another Romance language, such as Spanish or French, it will help you learn the Italian language.
However, if you don’t, how long will it take to learn Italian if you’re an English native speaker?
Learning Italian vocabulary
One of the best ways to learn Italian and improve your language skills is to first focus on learning vocabulary.
It is one of the 3 ways to learn a language that is proven to be very effective. It is also the best way to get a feel for the language, as well as help you to figure out how words are constructed.
Remember that every target language has words almost the same as your language but with a different meaning. The rest of the words will be different. This is why vocabulary is so important.
Focus on learning the basics first. The best ones to start with are greetings, numbers, and asking for directions. These are useful in everyday situations, and you’ll be surprised at how quickly they will become instinctive.
The written language vs. the spoken language
Italian is a phonetic language, which means that each sound is associated with a specific letter or letter combination. This makes it very easy to read and write and also sounds similar to the way it is pronounced. So reading is easy.
However, many English speakers have the misconception that because it is easy to read and write, it will be easy to speak too. This is not true.
This is the difference between communicating in a language that you read and a language that you speak from the heart. The written language is a little bit easier to learn than the spoken language.
Find out HERE how to learn Italian fast in a 1-on-1 online lesson.
How long does it take to learn Italian from English?
The answer to this question will vary from person to person. The main reason is that everyone has different abilities, and they are at different stages in the learning process.
However, it is possible to learn to speak Italian fluently in 9 months. If you are a complete beginner, then you will need to focus on learning the basics first. This will take you a few months with hours of lessons.
Once you have basic Italian fluency, you can start to focus on speed and accuracy to improve your skills. You should aim to practice for at least 30 minutes each day.
Suppose you can try to dedicate one or two hours of study each day. This will ensure that you progress as quickly as possible.
Find a learning method that works for you.
There are many different ways to learn a language (language learning apps, Italian language schools, or online courses), and you must choose one that suits you. For example, you can complement your lessons by joining a community forum where you can practice writing or conversational skills with other students.
Strategies to learn Italian fast
There are many different learning resources that you can use to learn Italian fast (and foreign languages in general).
Here are some of the most effective ones.
Immersive environment
One of the best ways to learn Italian quickly is to immerse yourself in the language. This means that you should try to live in a country where there are Italian speakers.
However, this is not always possible, so there are other ways to achieve a similar effect. You can find a language exchange partner, or you can use technology to help you. There are plenty of language apps that you can use.
Alternatively, you can try to create an environment where you are surrounded by the language (take Italian lessons for example, or practice with other Italian language learners).
The more that you can do this, the quicker you will learn.
Practice makes perfect
Another important thing to remember is that when learning any new skill, no matter how quickly you progress, there will be times when you feel like you are not making any progress at all.
It is important not to get discouraged during these times.
Instead, you should focus on the long-term goal and know that even though you might not be making much progress at the moment, you will be soon.
Incorporate language learning into your daily life
Learning a language is about more than just taking classes or studying textbooks.
You can also learn Italian by incorporating it into your daily life. For example, you can listen to Italian music or podcasts, watch Italian TV shows or movies, or read Italian books or articles.
This will help you to immerse yourself in the language and practice your listening and reading skills.
Set achievable goals
Setting achievable goals is important when learning a Italian language. You can break down your language learning journey into smaller goals, such as learning a certain number of words per week or conversing with a native speaker.
This will help you to track your progress and stay motivated as you work towards your ultimate goal of mastering Italian.
Are you ready to start?
If you are ready to learn Italian, then there is no time like the present. Find a language learning method that suits you and start learning.
There are many different ways to learn Italian if you speak English, and you should use them all. The best way to learn a language is to immerse yourself in it.
The sooner you start, the sooner you will be fluent in another language. It will take a bit of time and effort, but it is possible, and it will be worth it in the end.
What if you speak French already? How long does it take to learn Italian if you know French? Check it out on this link. How about Spanish? How long does it take? Find the answer here.
One Response
It took me about a year to become conversational in Italian. It definitely helps that English and Italian share some similarities in vocabulary and grammar. Good luck with your language learning journey!