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There's never been a better time to learn a new language. According to the 2017 Census, nearly half of residents in America's five largest cities speak a language other than English. Overall, the number of U.S. residents who speak a foreign language at home now stands at almost 67 million, which works out to one in four public school students. And if communicating with (or eavesdropping on) your neighbors isn't enough of an incentive, consider the mental benefits of learning some new words. According to the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages, studying new languages has myriad cognitive benefits. It correlates with higher standardized test scores, better hypothesizing in science, and better memory and critical thinking overall. And research suggests that those who learn a new language have a more positive perception of people from other cultures, something we can all use these days.
With these language apps you can download right on your phone, you can get started in a new tongue in minutes. Many of them have lessons that range from beginner to near-fluency levels, in a variety of delivery methods to suit your learning style. You'll be saying buongiorno to that sweet old lady across the street, or getting around in a new language when traveling, in no time. P.S. While you're at it, check out our favorite video chat apps and popular apps for kids.
Mondly
Because it lets you learn any language from your first language (rather than requiring everyone to learn from English) Mondly purports to be faster and more natural than other apps for those who aren't native English speakers. A kids' version also means the whole family can get their lingo on.
Available on: Web, iOs, and Android
RECOMMENDED: Best Apps for Kids
Mango
With platforms built for businesses, schools, libraries, and even governments, Mango is a robust language learning app that works in 70 languages. The software adapts as you learn, so you can gain fluency at your own pace. You can also pause a lesson and get back to it later, a handy feature not all apps provide. Some libraries offer it for free, so check if yours is one of them.
Available on: Web, iOs, and Android
Memrise
With home videos of native speakers, Memrise gives users a sense of how the new language actually sounds. It also utilizes proven memory techniques to cement lessons into your brain faster, as well as an algorithm that adapts to your learning pace and style. It also keeps track of the words you've mastered, for those who like a record of success.
Available on: Web, iOs, Android
Drops
If you really want to hone in on vocabulary, Drops uses a series of five-minute exercises to drill new words. The time limit gives it a gamified element that will keep you on your toes and the "travel talk" feature will teach you phrases you'll especially need while abroad.
Available on: iOs and Android
Busuu
In addition to language lessons with study plans and machine learning-enabled technology that mimic a traditional class, Busuu offers feedback from native speakers to help perfect your technique. The app also has an offline mode, so you can practice even out of Wifi range.
Available on: Web, iOs, and Android
Rosetta Stone
The OG language learning software has been in the game for over 25 years. Its lessons include a TruAccent speech recognition program, which helps you fine-tune your pronunciation so you can sound like a local. Rosetta Stone also has an immersion program that introduces you to a new language without the help of your own — a more intense experience that will mimic living abroad, wherever you are.
Available on: Web, iOs, Android
Duolingo
You might also have heard of Duolingo, a language-learning app that turns it into a game. The app helps you stay motivated with frequent reminders and awards for progress. The adorable owl mascot guides you through your lessons, and suffers the consequences if you don't stick with it.
Available for: Web, iOs, Android
Pimsleur
For those who want to focus on conversation, Pimsleur offers on-the-go speaking practice that helps you learn by answering questions and repeating vocabulary aloud. The program also has digital flashcards, role play challenges, and other games to help cement your knowledge.
Available on: Web, iOs, Android
Babbel
This app uses bite-sized lessons — 10–15 minutes each — to help you learn alongside your busy schedule. The program repeats vocabulary throughout each level, a proven method that helps learners retain new words. Lessons are also created in conjunction with native speakers and covering scenarios you'll actually use.
Available on: Web, iOs, Android
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