Language learning apps, like Duolingo, are a great way to learn new languages. Incorporating fun elements such as flashcards, quizzes and daily courses, users are introduced to new words and phrases in the language they want to learn.
Although you can learn a lot from a language-learning app, there are obvious limitations. For one, an app cannot teach you the nuances of the language and the culture. And, language is deeply interwoven with the culture of the people.
Also, an app may not give you a firm grasp of the language and you might have to engage a language teacher for that.
That said, Duolingo can teach you the basics and it is a great place to start in your journey. The app has mobile and web versions and is available on Android, IOS and web.
How does Duolingo work?
Duolingo has a simple interface and easy navigation. There’s also a little bird that gives users prompts with easy-to-follow instructions. To get started with Duolingo, follow the steps below.
-
Install the app from the App Store or Play Store (you can also go to duolingo.com to get started).
-
Once the app is installed, choose the language you want to learn.
-
Decide how long your daily practice will last (choose from 10, 15 and 20-minute plans).
-
Next, create an account by signing up with Facebook, Google or your email.
You’re ready to go!
Now the fun begins as the app gives you short tasks, which are quizzes. Answer each question and move on to the next. Once you’re done, you can revise the answers you got wrong.
Duoling Features
Duolingo supports learning 38 languages from the beginner stage to the advanced stage.
-
Self-paced lessons
-
Bite-sized learning
-
Games that enhance user engagement
-
Available on Android and IOS devices
-
Free to download
-
Daily reminders to complete tasks
The app is free, however, there is an in-app purchase called Duolingo Super. At $6.99 a month, you get the ad-free version of the app and access to more features. Note that you do not need the paid version.
System specifications
- iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch require iOS 15.0 or later
- Mac requires a system with an Apple M1 chip or later and macOS 12.0
- Apple Vision requires visionOS 1.0 or later.
- Android requires devices running Android 2.2 / iOS 6
Duolingo alternatives
Two main alternatives to Duolingo spring to mind and these are the Babbel and Memrise language apps. While they are both similar in operation to Duolingo, there are some slight differences.
The main difference between Babbel and Duolingo is the cost and the use of language. Babbel tries to incorporate natural language use by showing you the most natural way to use a word or phrase.
So rather than just learning the meaning of the word or phrase, as in Duolingo, you learn how it might be used in conversation.
Babbel also has a speech recognition function that lets you speak the words to the app. More than just speaking the words, Babbel lets you use them in conversations to give contextual meaning.
In addition, Babbel offers live classes. The app does not have a free model though, and that is where Duolingo shines. It is also slightly more expensive than Duolingo. If you are dedicated to learning the language and don’t mind spending a bit more, then go for Babbel.
Memrise on the other hand, is not much of an alternative to Duolingo. Similar in price, it has fewer features than the Duolingo app.
Also, Memrise allows users to learn the words rather than how the words are constructed.
In conclusion, the Duolingo app is a top-rated method for learning the rudiments of new languages. It makes learning fun and interesting and we recommend the app.
