Portuguese is an incredibly popular language that is spoken all around the globe. This language derives from Latin, which is the base for many other languages as well such as Spanish, Italian, and French. You might worry that Portuguese will be too hard to learn. This guide will help you understand the best methods for learning Portuguese and what you should study first to make the learning process easier. This way, you’ll be successful however you choose to apply your new skills.Â
What is Portuguese?
Portuguese is an incredibly popular language that is spoken in countries all around the world. People in Portugal and Brazil speak Portuguese, as it is the official language, but even countries in Asia and Africa commonly use Portuguese. The language derives from Latin and is among one of the few remaining Romantic languages, along with French, Italian, and Spanish. Those with experience learning one of these languages may have an easier time picking up on the Portuguese language.
People choose to learn Portuguese for several reasons. For example, those traveling to Portugal, Brazil, or other parts of the world can benefit from learning basic phrases and conversations to better navigate the country. Some people may learn Portuguese as a fun hobby or a way to keep their brains sharp. Of course, there are professional reasons to learn Portuguese as well. It is a very popular language, so there are people all around the world who speak Portuguese. For example, those who work in the healthcare industry, as educators, or in the service industry may benefit from knowing basic Portuguese.
Benefits of Learning Portuguese?
Learning Portuguese comes with the potential for new job opportunities, side hustles, and career advancements. For example, if you become proficient enough in Portuguese, you could become a part-time tutor or instructor. Helping others learn a language that you put so much time and effort into learning will feel rewarding and reassuring. If you work for an international company, knowing a second language may prove to be beneficial, or even necessary. Plus, if you work in a field that involves talking to diverse individuals such as a hospital or school, having a basic understanding of another language is an advantage when dealing with patients or students. With Portuguese being such a common language, and one that is closely related to other common languages, it is a great skill to include on a resume.Â
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Plus, there are many opportunities to meet new friends and make connections with others in your community. By enrolling in a Portuguese language class, you can meet others who share your desire to master the language. There are also many clubs, organizations, and hobbies that your Portuguese language skills can help you take part in such as sporting events, dance classes, cooking classes, and more. Learning another language is such a great way to connect with people from a different culture because it shows that you have respect for the country and that you are willing to put in the effort to communicate with others.
Learning any new skill helps us grow as more well-rounded individuals, but learning a new language is one particular skill that has specific benefits for brain function. Studying a new language can help improve memory and your ability to focus for longer periods of time. It can even physically help your brain by increasing the strength and density of the matter that makes up your brain. By learning Portuguese, you are testing and strengthening your brain all while enjoying yourself.
Is Portuguese Easy to Learn?
Like any skill, learning a new language takes time and dedication. Portuguese is no different. However, it is entirely possible to learn with the right attitude and with the help of a dedicated and skilled instructor. You may experience difficulties with memorization or word pronunciation, but this is expected. Over time, you will learn techniques to mitigate these issues and you will feel like it is less challenging.
Consider enrolling in a Portuguese for Spanish Speakers course if you have ever studied Spanish or if you are fluent in Spanish. Portuguese and Spanish are similar languages, as they are both Romantic languages. If you are fluent in other languages of this category such as French and Italian, you may benefit from this course as well. This eight-week course covers basic grammar, negations, present tense, adjectives, and vocabulary words. You will leave feeling more confident in your ability to have basic conversations with other Portuguese speakers. Once you have studied Portuguese for some time, you can advance to new levels such as the Portuguese High Beginner course. This class is designed for those who are able to speak in the present tense and have now moved on to conversing with others in the past tense. After these courses, you will be one step closer to Portuguese fluency.
The online Portuguese Beginner 2 course is ideal for someone who has a basic understanding of the Portuguese language, but who may need additional instruction on irregular verbs. While this class focuses on grammar, verb tense, and sentence structure, it also heavily relies on verbal interaction among classmates. This serves as a hands-on and interactive way to build vocabulary and conversational skills, so you can feel more confident talking to others in Portuguese.
What You Need to Know Before Learning Portuguese
There are a couple of things to consider before you start your language-learning journey. For example, it is important to factor in your previous experience. If you have ever studied Spanish, Italian, or French, it may be easier to learn Portuguese as they are all classified as Romantic languages. However, if you do not have any previous experience, this doesn’t mean you will have a harder time learning. In addition, you may need to ask yourself about your preferred learning style.
It is possible to encounter some challenges while learning Portuguese. Everyone is different, and everyone learns at a different pace, which is perfectly fine. For example, you may find pronunciation to be difficult, especially if this is your first time learning a new language. Others may have a hard time with verb conjugation. Maybe some people have a hard time memorizing words and phrases. Regardless of the issues you may encounter, there are ways to overcome these challenges. For example, learning alongside a partner, using flashcards, and practicing regularly can help with all of these common issues.Â
What You Need to Learn Portuguese
There are a few tools, mindsets, and materials that may benefit you during your Portuguese learning journey. Specific materials can differ from class to class. Some online courses require that you purchase your own materials. However, many in-person classes provide the course materials for you. In the event they do not, materials can be found at a local store or perhaps even in your home. Other supplemental tools and mindsets are acquired over time with lots of practice.
Course Materials
The specific course materials depend on the class and instructor. However, there are a few basic items that you will need to take notes with such as a notebook and pen or a laptop. In addition, you could use a binder or folder to hold all of your notes, handouts, and materials. You may be required to use a Portuguese textbook or handbook or use a specific software with which to learn Portuguese. Many in-person classes have materials provided for you, but online classes may require you to procure your own items and supplies.
Portuguese Dictionary
A Portuguese dictionary is a great resource to have on hand, both in and out of the classroom. If you are in class and have trouble with a word or phrase, the Portuguese dictionary can help you quickly and easily find the word you are attempting to say. Moreover, if you are out of the classroom, you could also use your Portuguese dictionary. Let’s say you are at a restaurant and have the chance to use your Portuguese skills. You could brush up on your Portuguese skills before ordering. This resource is a great way to quickly and easily practice Portuguese so you can attend the next class feeling even more prepared.
Supplemental Resources
There are supplemental resources that can also help you learn Portuguese. For example, you can find a mobile app that will test your Portuguese skills when you are outside of the classroom. These are generally free and serve as a way to practice speaking, reading, and listening to Portuguese. Although these resources are low-cost or free, there are fewer explanations or chances to have questions answered without the help of an experienced instructor.
Time, Patience, and Dedication
Of course, it is impossible to learn a new language within a week, so it is important to enter the Portuguese classroom with the correct mindset. It is essential to know that it will take time, patients, and dedication to learn a new language. If you set aside enough time every week to study, remain patient when there are challenges, and stay focused on your goals, you will learn the Portuguese language. Having the right mindset could be the key to reaching your language-learning dreams.
Key Takeaways
Learning Portuguese is an advantageous skill to acquire. There are many professional and personal benefits associated with learning the Portuguese language.
- Portuguese is a popular language that is spoken all throughout the world. In particular, there is Portuguese and Brazilian Portuguese, which have slight variations. The language has Latin roots and is among one of the top five most widely spoken languages in the world.
- There are ample benefits associated with learning Portuguese. There are personal benefits such as making new friends and exploring new cultures, but also professional benefits. Those in a variety of fields would benefit from learning Portuguese. Learning a new language has also been linked to increased brain function.
- Overall, learning any new language has challenges. Some may experience different challenges than others but know that there are techniques and tools to resolve these issues. With practice, you will pick up on the Portuguese language in no time.
- There are a few items that may help you learn Portuguese quickly and with ease. For example, any course materials are necessary for the learning process. In addition, you may benefit from supplemental materials such as handbooks or mobile apps, and a Portuguese dictionary to help while you practice speaking Portuguese in real time.
- While there are many ways to learn about Portuguese, formal training is the best option such as an in-person or online class. If you prefer to learn on your own or with a specific group, there are also private lessons or classes available through CourseHorse. Contact CourseHorse to find options for online or in-person classes, including private group sessions.