What is the best online platform to learn a language?
Learning a new language is one of the most rewarding skills you can acquire. Whether you’re preparing for travel, boosting your career, or simply pursuing a personal interest, mastering a foreign language opens countless doors. Fortunately, the internet provides a plethora of resources that allow you to learn languages online for free. Here are 10 of the best websites to get you started on your language-learning journey, along with what makes each unique.
1. Duolingo
Duolingo is one of the most popular language-learning platforms, boasting millions of users worldwide. This interactive website offers bite-sized lessons that gamify the learning process. With courses in over 30 languages, Duolingo helps learners improve their reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.
Key Features:
- Interactive lessons with a game-like approach.
- Progress tracking to keep you motivated.
- Community forums to interact with other learners.
Duolingo’s free tier is extensive, although ads support the platform. Upgrading to the premium version removes ads, but it’s not necessary to enjoy the core features.
2. Memrise
Memrise combines traditional language instruction with creative memory techniques. It uses flashcards, multimedia, and spaced repetition to help you retain vocabulary effectively. Many courses are designed by native speakers, giving you cultural insights along the way.
Key Features:
- User-created courses for niche languages and dialects.
- Visual and audio cues for better retention.
- Offline access for learning on the go.
Memrise’s community-driven content ensures a wealth of options for learners of all levels.
3. BBC Languages
Although no longer updated, BBC Languages remains an excellent free resource for language learners. It offers audio, video, and text-based resources in multiple languages, catering to both beginners and intermediate learners.
Key Features:
- Extensive library of grammar tips and cultural notes.
- Videos featuring native speakers.
- Self-assessment tools to track progress.
This site is particularly useful for European languages like French, German, and Spanish.
4. Open Culture
Open Culture curates free language-learning resources from across the web. It provides access to audio courses, ebooks, and instructional videos for more than 40 languages.
Key Features:
- Links to university-level courses and materials.
- Diverse language offerings, including lesser-known languages like Swahili and Icelandic.
- Content from reputable sources like universities and cultural institutions.
Open Culture is perfect for learners who prefer an academic approach.
5. Busuu
Busuu offers a community-based language-learning experience, connecting learners with native speakers for practice. While the free version has some limitations, it provides solid grammar and vocabulary exercises.
Key Features:
- Practice speaking with native speakers through video or text.
- Structured lessons covering grammar, vocabulary, and conversation.
- Certification available for completed courses.
For a small fee, you can unlock additional features, but the free version is sufficient for foundational learning.
6. HelloTalk
HelloTalk is a language exchange platform where you can practice speaking with native speakers from around the world. Unlike traditional learning platforms, it focuses on communication rather than structured lessons.
Key Features:
- Text, voice, and video chat options.
- Built-in translation and correction tools.
- Community forums for topic-based discussions.
It’s an excellent way to learn colloquial expressions and cultural nuances directly from native speakers.
7. Clozemaster
Clozemaster is designed for learners who want to build vocabulary through contextual learning. It uses fill-in-the-blank exercises to teach words and phrases in real-world sentences.
Key Features:
- Over 50 languages available.
- Gamified learning with points and leaderboards.
- Focus on context rather than isolated vocabulary.
Clozemaster is ideal for intermediate to advanced learners looking to expand their vocabulary.
8. LangCorrect
LangCorrect is a platform where learners can practice writing in their target language and receive corrections from native speakers. It’s a community-driven site that focuses on improving written communication.
Key Features:
- Constructive feedback from native speakers.
- User-friendly interface for drafting and editing.
- Opportunities to learn through correcting others’ writing.
This platform is excellent for honing your writing skills and understanding grammar nuances.
9. Forvo
Forvo is a unique tool that focuses on pronunciation. It provides audio recordings of words and phrases spoken by native speakers in hundreds of languages.
Key Features:
- Searchable database of pronunciation clips.
- Option to request new pronunciations.
- Community-driven contributions.
Pair Forvo with other resources to perfect your accent and intonation.
10. Mango Languages (Through Libraries)
Mango Languages is often available for free through local libraries. It offers a structured approach with interactive lessons that emphasize conversational skills.
Key Features:
- Access to dozens of languages.
- Grammar and culture integrated into lessons.
- Mobile app for convenient learning.
Check if your library provides free access to Mango Languages—it’s a hidden gem for learners.
Conclusion
Learning a foreign language has never been more accessible, thanks to these amazing free resources. Whether you prefer gamified apps like Duolingo, community-based platforms like HelloTalk, or academic resources from Open Culture, there’s something for every learning style and goal. Start exploring these websites today, and you’ll be speaking a new language in no time!
Please see also this page at Amazon for the best clanguage courses for beginners.
Which platform are you most excited to try? Let us know in the comments below!
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