learn a language
/lɜːrn ə ˈlæŋɡwɪdʒ/
Meaning
This phrase means to acquire the ability to understand, speak, read, and write in a tongue other than your native one. In academic settings, it refers to formal study, cognitive development, or multicultural education. It implies a long-term process of education.
Examples
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It is often said that children can learn a language much faster than adults.
It is often said that children can learn a language much faster than adults.
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She decided to learn a language before traveling to South America for her research.
She decided to learn a language before traveling to South America for her research.
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To learn a language successfully, you must expose yourself to it daily.
To learn a language successfully, you must expose yourself to it daily.
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Many universities require students to learn a language as part of their degree.
Many universities require students to learn a language as part of their degree.
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Learning a language is not just about memorizing vocabulary; it is also about understanding culture.
Learning a language is not just about memorizing vocabulary; it is also about understanding culture.
Common Mistakes
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✗ I want to study a language, but I don't have time to learn it.
✓ I want to learn a language, but I don't have time.
While 'study' means to attend classes or look at books, 'learn' means to actually gain the skill or knowledge. Use 'learn' for the ultimate goal.
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✗ He is learning a new idiom.
✓ He is learning a new language.
In English, 'idiom' refers to a specific figurative phrase, while 'language' refers to the entire system of communication (like French or Japanese).
Related Expressions
Practice
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If you want to ___, you should try to watch movies without subtitles.
💡 Acquire the ability to speak and understand a foreign tongue.
Show answer
learn a language
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Many people find it difficult to ___ when they do not live in the country where it is spoken.
💡 To study and understand a foreign communication system.
Show answer
learn a language