7 tips to learn Spanish vocabulary fast
Learning a language can be challenging when we need to fit so many other priorities into our busy lives. I have been trying to learn French in my free time, and sometimes I struggle to find the time to sit down and learn some vocabulary. Whether your aim is learning Spanish for travel or work, you need to start expanding your vocabulary.
But, how to learn Spanish vocabulary fast and what is the best way? Here, I share some tips that will help you learn quickly and retain it.
Learn Spanish vocabulary fast with these tips:
1. Plunge into the language
The best way to learn Spanish vocabulary fast is to be in touch with the language as much as possible. Some ideas that I use to keep my languages fresh:
- Watch Spanish-language shows, movies, and YouTube channels.
- Listen to Spanish podcasts or music in the car or when doing household chores.
- Follow social media accounts and blogs or read the news in Spanish.
In other words, make Spanish a part of your routine.
2. Use flashcards and put them in categories
Use flashcards to memorise new words. You can get them online or make your own. Then, ask a friend to test you or test yourself. I use flashcards in my lessons and I categorise them in groups, such as verbs for different topics.
3. Don’t memorise words; focus on the ones you use most
Learn the Spanish vocabulary you think you are going to use in everyday conversations. Learn Spanish vocabulary based on your interests and needs, and when you feel comfortable and ready, start with a new list.
4. Speak Spanish regularly
Even if you’re still learning basic vocabulary, speaking is a crucial part of retaining new words. Book now one of my Spanish conversation sessions. You will see an improvement as we focus on topics of your interest, and you will learn the related vocabulary to start the conversation. The more you practice speaking, the more likely you’ll remember the words when you need them.
5. Use your Spanish in real-life situations
Apply your new words in real-life situations. If you’re travelling to a Spanish-speaking country, try to use the new words you’ve learned there. Be confident and order food at the restaurant, or have a short interaction with a local. If you’re not travelling, speak to your Spanish tutor and create role play situations, such as having a mock conversation at a cafe or imagining you’re at the bank.
The more you practice the situations, the more confident you will feel.
6. Stay motivated by learning in small chunks
Remind yourself why you want to learn Spanish and focus on that goal. Take your time and be patient. Learning a language is a long journey and can sometimes feel slow.
I find that the best way to learn Spanish vocabulary is in small chunks. When I started learning English, I tried to spend a few minutes each day reviewing words and learning new ones, even if it was just 10 minutes! I believe that the more you are exposed to the language, the more you will retain the new vocabulary.
7. Use a notebook
Last but not least, get yourself a notebook and start writing down your new words and sentences. This will help reinforce what you’ve learned and retain it faster. Without realising it, you will find improvement in your grammar, spelling and sentence structure. Then, as mentioned earlier, revisit your category lists regularly.
Follow these tips if you want to speed up the learning process. Before you know it, you will look forward to start using them. Be consistent and patient, and make Spanish a part of your day, and the most important thing, have fun!
Do you need help learning Spanish vocabulary and how to pronounce your newly acquired words? Get in touch to find out how.