Every now and then after you have decided to pick up a new language or skill, you would have probably run into all kind of myths. For instance, they used to tell you that learning Japanese is impossible.
However, in reality, the good news is that a lot of the commonly believed facts about language acquisition are false. In fact, it is not all that difficult to learn Japanese.
So, to get you started on your Japanese language learning journey, let us uncover four of the most commonly believed myths about learning Japanese.
Immersion In Japanese Can Only Happen In Japan
No matter the language you are learning, this is definitely untrue. It is even possible to master the language by just simply taking up Japanese classes in Singapore.
Certainly, living in Japan is the easiest way to be immersed in Japanese but just because you live in Japan, it does not necessarily mean that you will learn the language. It takes hard work regardless of where you are.
Our fantastic Internet age offers easy access to immersive listening practices. Just check out Japanese YouTube channels and download some of their podcasts. Many Japanese movies, TV shows and music are also available in many different places. Simply take the time to search them up on Google.
Listening to Japanese without actually studying Japanese will not get you anywhere but conversely studying Japanese daily without listening to any audio or podcasts won’t really get you anywhere either. As after all, they go hand in hand and thankfully, the Internet makes the listening side a piece of cake.
Alcohol Will Help You Learn The Language Better
Though drinking alcohol will unhinge your inhibitions and make you a little less nervous to practice your Japanese, this myth is completely not true at all.
While a famous study by the University of Michigan does show that 1.5 drinks are the optimal amount for language practice, any more than will get you sloppy and any lesser amount will not loosen you up.
The famous polyglot Benny Lewis has learned seven languages without a drop of alcohol. His secret is the lack of fear.
You Must Have A Knack For The Language
You must have a special talent or knack to learn Japanese – again false. Many multi-linguists, Japanese translators and all-around fluent Japanese speakers are self-proclaimed failures.
The polyglot, Benny Lewis admittedly lived in Spain for six months without learning enough Spanish to ask for directions to the bathroom. Does that mean he did not use the bathroom for six months?
Similarly, famous translator Matt Alt admitted during an interview that he was never a good student or linguist. Meanwhile, Zac Davison, professional translator of Quito and Showa has said: “People often ask me how long it took me to learn Japanese and I always tell them that I am still learning.”
Learning the Japanese language is a constant process where diligence and perseverance pay off more than talent or natural ability. So, with enough effort, you can be sure to pick up the language even if it might take a little more time than others.
Being Too Old Will Affect Your Learning Ability
Many believe that age can potentially affect your ability to learn the Japanese language or any other language.
However, there has never been a single study that has conclusively proven that children are better language learners than adults. In fact, a recent study from the University of Haifa proved the opposite. Under controlled circumstances, adults are better language learners than children because adults have more fully developed brains.
They can more easily grasp language concepts, grammar rules and the like. It is just a matter of staying on track and using your time wisely.
If you ever believed in these four myths then you need to reconsider your beliefs. The road will be difficult, but once you are on it nothing can stop you from reaching your destination.
