Learning A Language On The Go

Mobile Language Apps for the Very Mobile Traveler

Calling all business travelers and international frequent flyers!  Don’t have time to study your foreign-language phrase book or get to a class before you take off? These days, it’s easy to take along a language-learning app and hone your language skills while you’re on the go.

In most languages, a basic vocabulary of just about 100 words will get you by quite nicely – and that’s a very doable goal that a mobile language app can help you reach.

Whether you just want to learn to say hello and order a meal in Norwegian, ask directions to the museum in Dutch, or buy some souvenirs in Japanese, there are loads of apps (both paid and gratis) for your smart phone or your laptop. Right here we’re going to suggest a few free mobile apps that can help you learn to speak up in almost any language. 

1. Byki – For multiple destinations and simple phrases
Quick, essential phrases in Danish, Dutch, French, German, Irish, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish and Taglog are at your fingertips with this app. In three easy steps, you can master everyday cordialities that will take you across Europe and Asia. Byki also offers a database of vocabulary around themes. Want to know how to order a beer in every country you visit? This is the app for you.

2. Busuu – Go in-depth with recordings and more
Available in Spanish, Russian, Portuguese, Italian, French and German, Busuu has a similar interface to Rosetta Stone in terms of exercises and format. Native speaker sound, illustrations, colorful flashcards, dialogues and audiovisual quizzes make for an engaging and active learning experience. Busuu also lets you review your mistakes – and that’s one of the best ways to learn.

3. Vocabology – Pump up your vocabulary
This vocabulary-boosting app is designed for the daily language apprentice. It allows you to get a word-of-the-day in Spanish, Portuguese, German, Italian, French and English from a variety of sources. Vocabology also helps you with context.

The ability to speak even a few simple phrases while abroad shows respect for the country you are visiting, gets you the information you need, and makes your trip more enjoyable. Read our complete article and learn about two more free language-learning apps.

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