Learning to understand and communicate in Swedish is a great task that demands your discipline and focus. Although, Swedish rarely is a language people decide to learn just for the sake of it. So my guesses are that you have either moved here for various reasons. Or you are looking to do so.
Either way, you are probably asking yourself "how can I learn Swedish language?". And most likely, you are looking to do so in the fastest and easiest way possible. No worries, Superprof is here to help!
In this article we will guide you how to start learning Swedish and provide our best advice on how you learn your new language in an easy, fun and engaging way. So bring out your notepad and pen, we are ready to take off!
Easiest way to learn Swedish
Is there ever an easy way to learn a new language? Probably not. Especially considering we all learn in different paces, using different study techniques and with an individual mix of resources. Perhaps the easiest way is by being aware of your own study technique and what you need in order to learn new things.
Although usually we find things being easier if we enjoy doing them. Perhaps the fun approach to learning a new language is also the easy approach. Therefore, let us have a look at some fun and engaging resources that will help you learn Swedish.
Watch TV-shows and movies in Swedish
You probably prefer a certain movie or tv-show genre, watching movies and tv-series within that genre to help you learn Swedish is often a fun and easy way to boost your language studies. You may need to gain some basic knowledge in Swedish before you jump into the selection of movies on Netflix. But once you are started, try watching movies in Swedish with subtitles in your native language. As you improve, try removing the subtitles.
Some find it easier starting with children's movies as these often have a more simplistic language and easy-to-follow story. But that is entirely up to you and what kind of movies you prefer. Watching movies you've seen multiple times before might be a good idea too.
Pick up a book
Sweden has many successful authors to be proud of, and while learning Swedish you can take part of the brilliant books and stories too!
As a beginner, it might be easier starting off with magazines that tickles your interest. Seeing as these are usually shorter paragraphs and more bite-size content. However, as you deppen your language skills you will definitely be able to browse for books!
Here are some easy to adapt advice to keep in mind:
- Pay a visit to your local library. Swedish libraries often offer a wide variety of genres, titles and types of books. The librarians working there also hold a terrific understanding of their collection, so asking them for help is always a good idea! If you visit a bigger library, they might have a section dedicated to people learning Swedish.
- Search for books you already know and like. Just like watching movies that you know of, reading books where you don't have to focus too much on the story might be helpful.
- Explore e-books and audio books. Some people prefer listening to the book, or reading it on a tablet while on the go. We have plenty of good reading services such as BookBeat, Storytel and Nextstory you could check out.
- Search for new titles within your favorite genre! Perhaps you can find new favorites among Swedish authors, within genres you already love!
Combining different learning resources are often a great way to speed up and help yourself when learning a new language.
Listen to Swedish music and podcasts
I don't know if podcasts are as appreciated and popular outside of Sweden, but here we are definitely in our podcast era! No matter what your hobbies or interests are, what your pet peeve is or what you do for a living. There is a podcast (or two) for you!
The perks of listening to Swedish podcasts is that you get to listen to the language which helps you pick up on the melody of the spoken language, and also hear the pronunciation of the words.
There are also some great podcasts specifically for people like you, looking to learn Swedish. Give them a shot!
- Radio Sweden på lätt svenska (Radio Sweden in easy Swedish). A podcast hosted by the national radio company Sveriges Radio offering a daily news broadcast that is informative and easy to follow.
- Swedish podcast for beginners (Lätt svenska med Oskar). In bite size episodes of approximately 10 minutes, this podcast helps you learn Swedish in short lessons. The podcast has earned a high rating and many recommendations from people who's moved to Sweden and are learning the language.
- Coffee break Swedish. In this podcast you come along with Hanna and her student Mark over coffee. While Mark is learning Swedish, so are you! This truly is a relaxed and fun way to expand your vocabulary, practice pronunciation and learn to communicate in Swedish.
Same goes for Swedish music. Sweden is a big name within the global music industry and we are known to produce amazing music. Why not give Swedish music a try?
Use language learning apps
If you want to learn Swedish fast you should look into some language learning apps! A lot of people who have moved here (or to other countries) have all vouched for apps such as Duolingo when they got the question of how to learn Swedish language fast.
As always, it's best to combine different learning resources when you are getting to know a new language. But using language learning apps often helps you practice both your speech, writing, reading and communication skills.
With the extended use of digital resources today, there are plenty of online tools you can use for free or at a low cost. That involves apps, online tv-shows, YouTube and so on.
Become friends with the Swedes!
Another great way of learning a new language is by actually spending time with the Swedes! I promise, we're good people! No one is going to judge you for not speaking fluently, but admire your dedication to learn!
This is probably easier if you are studying or working here, as universities and workplaces are a natural way of getting to know new people.
Although there are many Facebook groups available gathering people who, just like you, moved to Sweden without knowing anyone. You can always meet up for fika and practice the language together, or they have some great experience they like to share with you!
How to learn Swedish fast and easy
Is there really a way to learn a new language fast? Maybe it comes down to what your perception of 'fast' is. It also depends on what skill level you are looking for.
Although if you are wondering how to learn Swedish quickly, combining different resources, approaches and study techniques usually cuts it. That means combining language classes, language learning apps, watching Swedish movies and listening to podcasts.
Also, the more time and dedication you give your language studies, the faster you will learn.
Is it possible to learn Swedish on your own?
You might question if attending language classes are necessary to learn a new language, or if you could handle your studies on your own and become fluent in Swedish. The answer is boring and plain, it depends.
In theory you could definitely learn Swedish on your own. You have all the resources, books, lessons and knowledge available online. Most of it is even for free!
What it depends on, is you. If you are spending the required study hours actually doing the work, setting up a schedule and curriculum for yourself, combining different study methods and expose yourself to situations that force you to speak and practice Swedish. Then yes, you can learn Swedish on your own.
However, if you are being lazy about it and priorities everything else going on in your life. Then the answer is probably no, you can't learn Swedish on your own.
Also some people find learning a new language a piece of cake! Others struggle to understand and implement the new language skills.
Either way you are going to have to start somewhere. If you haven't actually moved here yet, it might be easier to start off with movies and language learning apps. To then grow your skills one step at a time. While if you have already moved here, you are probably being offered SFI classes which will give you a great start to your language learning! In this case, the additional resources are beneficial however not necessarily required.
And if you want to learn independently, but gain support from a private tutor Superprof is always nearby! We have skilled and engaged teachers all over Sweden (and the world) to help you achieve your goals. Perhaps you can meet up for coffee to practice communication skills and everyday situations.
With that being said, we wish you the best of luck!
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