How can I learn Greek fluently?
I am Greek, went to greek school, but stopped using the language. My mom speaks to me in English, my dad speaks in Greek but I always give him very simplified Greek responses. I'm obviously not a beginner, because I have the writing, prononciating etc part down, I guess If skill 1 is beginner and skill 3 was expert in the language, I'd be around a 2. I want to expand my vocabulary to be able to express myself entirely as I do in English- I've heard of the Rosetta Stone and other language learning program, but what suits my needs in order to "wow" my parents secretly and show them that i 1(i never forgot it, even though thats not true!) and 2(do it without them knowing that I got the help) in order to prove to them and their friends that I can also speak fluently in my native language. thanks!
Tags: dad, greek school, mom, native language, parents, rosetta stone, vocabulary
November 17th, 2009 at 9:19 am
Since you’ve got a greek-language-foundation already you only need make greek a p a r t of your life (as means of expression and communication) again. Don’t forget that dead languages are the languages that are not spoken anymore.
You can start with greek literature. If you are an avid reader it will help you tremendously, but even if you do not enjoy reading you can find resources about your favorite topics in greek on the Internet, in greek magazines etc, so you can learn new interesting things and practice greek at the same time. Newspaper articles are also a good way to go, but literature is more "varied" and uses the language with greater flexibility, I suppose.
If you are more of a listener, you can listen to greek radio programs (available through the internet) or watch greek tv series. If you like some style of greek music and pick up the lyrics of the songs easily you’ll have many useful phrases handy.
I don’t know what your level of knowledge is (you say you went to a greek school, but, for how long?) or your age, but it could help if you have a look at the books used nowadays at greek schools for teaching the greek language.
http://pi-schools.gr
November 17th, 2009 at 9:19 am
Since you have the fundamentals of the language, you need to build your vocabulary. Since English is your primary language, when you communicate, try to translate into Greek in your head. (think in Greek, speak in English). Use notes on random things to build vocab.
November 17th, 2009 at 9:19 am
read Greek books
and use
November 17th, 2009 at 9:19 am
the best way is to go to Greece .. Go visit some relatives i am sure you have some that do not speak English
go for the summer you will come back speaking well
Good luck Miki
Also if that is not an option go talk to your priest i am sure he will help you does your church have lessons, most do.you could tell him you want to surprise you parents.
do you have Greek Friends ? you are already Greek! you have more than the basics just start using what you have and it will grow from there.Even if you make mistakes that’s OK you have to speak it . i hope you understand what i am trying to say.
Try this maybe it will help
http://www.kypros.org/LearnGreek/