Sneaky Language Study Tips

Integrating Language Learning into Everyday Activities 📚💬🎧✏️

Hello all,

I’m back. However, it seems that I misplaced the article I was supposed to publish earlier today because I've been scatterbrained preoccupied with hosting friends and family.

I guess it didn’t save properly on Google Docs!

Whenever social commitments are made that require me to deviate from my usual hermit-like schedule, my immediate concern is still being able to study. I start making these elaborate plans in my head that never actually happen because I get so absorbed in what I need to do (in a good way because sometimes people>studying). If you're an introvert too, you probably understand the need for downtime to recharge and get back on track. And while I am struggling to re-establish my routine, here are a few things I tell myself count as “sneaky studying”:

1. Listening to target language podcasts while multitasking.

   Instead of music, I tell myself to listen to audiobooks or podcasts when I'm getting ready or during my commutes. I've developed a newfound interest in podcasts featuring multiple hosts because of their conversational nature. My current go-to is the Hiiki Biiki archive. The Japanese used is native-level, and it's as if you're eavesdropping on two friends discussing random yet interesting topics.

2. Changing the dubs and subs on English shows to Japanese.

   Over winter break, I've been indulging in the shows on Disney+. For fun, I've been switching the English dubs to the Japanese versions. The differences in translations and cultural contexts of jokes and quips make for an interesting comparison. It's strange, but Japanese dubs and subs can have slight differences in their scripts sometimes¹, providing a good way to test for both listening and reading skills while you unwind.

3. Playing a video game in Japanese.

   Although I’m typically not into video games, I’ve been enjoying this cozy RPG called Bear’s Restaurant in Japanese. RPGs often contain extensive text, including dialogue, descriptions, and narratives. Besides the interesting storyline, the game reinforces learning by frequently repeating key phrases and vocabulary. There are 15 different languages to the game available on Steam and 13 on the mobile app.

4. Reading instructions and labels.

   The past few weeks of helping people shop have taught me the value of being able to read and comprehend ingredients lists and other labels. As for instructions, I’ve slowly yet successfully followed an entire manual on changing my electronic bidet seat without flooding my apartment! Despite needing help from a native Japanese speaker in the end, I’m happy for the practical experience (and to have saved on the installation fee).

5. Asking fellow Japanese language learners what they’ve learned recently.

   When catching up with another Japanese language learner, I realized I should ask about what they’ve learned recently more often. It's a chance to expand our knowledge and get fresh insights into the language. I find that when I actively take part in these conversations, I not only get inspired and motivated by my friends' progress, but also find new information, resources, techniques, and strategies.

Do you have your own “sneaky study” tips? I’d love to hear them! Share your creative ways of integrating language learning into your daily routines. Maybe you have found a method to incorporate new vocabulary through cooking recipes or have discovered an app that gamifies grammar.

Hopefully, you’ve had a better time keeping up with your own language studies! Whether you’re consistently hitting your study goals or finding unique solutions to learn on the go, I’d love to know. Happy studying, and until next time!

1. One explanation to the sub and dub difference