I think that is right. I learned a language on my own with a book, but also listened to the radio and read a newspaper in that language. Fortunately when I needed to speak it, found out they did understand me!
It's a long, slow process, Rat. I've been learning Spanish for more years than I can remember. It keeps my brain occupied and has given me an excuse to travel the world to participate in Spanish Immersion Programs in a number of countries. I've given up on the books. Immersion is the best way! Nothing like experience as a teacher. Then I come home and forget it all until my next trip. :)
«Learning Chinese is easy, just the first forty years are hard.» (usually attributed to Edgars Katajs but there are lots of apocryphal stories about him)
I have similar relationship with French – every five years or so I decide to study it but after a while something gets in the way. In about thirty years, I've reached the level of 'chien savant' (understands everything, just doesn't talk). :)
I think that is right. I learned a language on my own with a book, but also listened to the radio and read a newspaper in that language. Fortunately when I needed to speak it, found out they did understand me!
It's a long, slow process, Rat. I've been learning Spanish for more years than I can remember. It keeps my brain occupied and has given me an excuse to travel the world to participate in Spanish Immersion Programs in a number of countries. I've given up on the books. Immersion is the best way! Nothing like experience as a teacher. Then I come home and forget it all until my next trip. :)
«Learning Chinese is easy, just the first forty years are hard.» (usually attributed to Edgars Katajs but there are lots of apocryphal stories about him)
I have similar relationship with French – every five years or so I decide to study it but after a while something gets in the way. In about thirty years, I've reached the level of 'chien savant' (understands everything, just doesn't talk). :)