We know that 15 minutes of daily language practice is one of the easiest ways to chip away at your language goals. But we also know that finding creative ways to try out your language skills outside of your lessons can enhance (and inspire!) your practice. Think of it like extra credit: watching a movie, listening to music, or even following social influencers in your learning language is just one more way to ensure that you’re developing a deeper relationship with the language and its culture!
Are you spending a lot of time on TikTok? (So are we.) We gathered some of our favorite multilingual creators whose videos make learning even more fun. Check them out, and keep practicing!
What language are you practicing?
Find your language below, and give these creators a follow!
If you’re learning Japanese:
Follow @k.fel: Kristine is chronicling her Japanese-learning journey with a range of content subtitled in English, which makes it easier for beginner learners to follow along (and get in on the joke). Kristine also has a fun series noting similarities between Japanese words and words from other languages!
If you’re learning French:
Follow @Loicsuberville: Loïc uses common language mistakes and miscommunications to create hilarious one-man skits in a combination of French and English. It will be easier to remember oft-misused words once you’ve seen his characters commit social faux pas! (As we’ve said before: silly sentences and situations actually work to help you remember language and vocabulary!)
If you’re learning Spanish:
Follow @MillennialLoteria: Mike has found a really creative way to answer translation questions: by using music! He manages to find the exact moment in a popular song that sounds like the Spanish translation for a common sentence—and includes the written translation on the video in case you miss it. (For example, the Spanish translation to “Hello, how much does this cost?” is hidden in Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas…” but you’ll have to listen closely to hear it!) Warning: you may never sing your favorite songs the same way again.
If you’re learning Korean:
Follow @leesjae96: Their K-drama parodies (where they play every single part) aren’t only entertaining, but also valuable learning tools! Thanks to videos subtitled in Korean and English, learners can watch scenes unfold and digest what’s going on.
If you’re learning German:
Follow @kaici: Her #InGermanWeDontSay series contrasts English phrases with their German counterparts—and she’s a good creator to follow if you want to learn more about German culture!
If you’re learning Portuguese:
Follow @marianna_alexandre: Her profile promises “um mundo” of POVs, and for more advanced learners, these short scenes and videos are a fun way to stay entertained while you practice. The videos are in Portuguese with Portuguese subtitles, which is a fun challenge for your listening and reading skills!
Want even more ways to switch up your daily practice? Check out these tips from Duolingo’s teaching and learning experts!