
14 Jan 6 tips for Understanding Spoken Italian at A2/B1
Native speakers of any language can seem to speak at lightning speed. It’s difficult to understand them. It is important to practice you Italian online or on in person courses.
Italian online: why does the language sound like music?
Italian, with its abundance of vowels and those pesky preposizioni articolate (della, sullo, nella – you know the ones!), flows like music. It’s beautiful, but it can also make sentences sound like one continuous stream, making it tough to decipher, especially when spoken at a rapid pace.
So, how can you improve your comprehension? Here are some tips to improve your understanding in Italian:
How to understand more?
1. Boost Your Vocabulary:
- Active Recall: Use language learning apps like Quizlet or Anki to actively recall vocabulary.
- Focus on Recognition: When listening to Italian (podcasts, movies, etc.), try to identify words you already know. This helps break down the “one-long-word” effect.
2. Prioritize General Understanding:
- Don’t Strive for Perfection: At beginner and intermediate levels, it’s unrealistic to understand every single word. Focus on grasping the main idea.
- Visual Aids: Watching movies or TV shows with subtitles provides valuable context and makes it easier to understand the overall message.
3. Start Simple:
- Beginner-Friendly Resources: Begin with easy-to-understand resources like YouTube videos from Italian publishers (Alma Edizioni, Edilingua, etc.) or beginner-friendly podcasts like “Easy Italiano” and “News in Slow Italian.”
- Gradual Progression: For more advanced learners, explore podcasts like “Italiano Avanzato.”
4. Leverage AI:
- Transcription Tools: Use AI-powered tools like TurboScribe to generate transcripts of podcasts or videos. This can significantly aid comprehension.
5. Targeted Learning:
- Select Key Words: Choose 5-10 new words or expressions from each listening session that are most relevant and useful to you.
- Learn with Context: Use flashcards or apps like Quizlet to learn these words, including the accompanying articles (as articles are crucial in Italian grammar).
- Reinforcement: Revisit the podcast or video to hear the selected words used in context.
6. Consistent Practice:
- Regular Exposure: Consistent exposure to spoken Italian is key. Listen to podcasts, watch movies, and try to engage in conversations whenever possible.
By focusing on vocabulary, general understanding, and consistent practice, you can gradually improve your ability to understand spoken Italian, even at its fastest pace.
Don’t wait any longer to achieve your dream of speaking Italian! Contact us today at biuro@wloski.org to schedule a free consultation and discover how we can help you reach your goals.