In the digital era, language learning has gone beyond conventional methods, introducing innovative approaches such as mobile applications. Considered the hip and trendy version of language, slang is continuously evolving, making it an essential part of any language learner’s toolkit. Consequently, a niche has been carved out for apps that help users familiarize themselves with slang. Below, we delve into the top apps for learning slang in the 21st Century.
1. Urban Dictionary (iOS and Android)
Urban Dictionary began as a website in 1999 and later resulted in a mobile app, becoming the leading authority on English slang. User-generated, it hosts millions of words and phrases, many of which are contemporary and not found in traditional dictionaries. Users can search for a term, browse trending words, and even submit their own definitions. For learners who enjoy humor, this app infuses casual jokes related to the definitions, making the learning process entertaining.
2. FluentU (iOS and Android)
FluentU utilizes real-world content like movies, music, news, and inspiring talks to teach languages, including their slang. It uses video clips and interactive subtitles to introduce learners to colloquial language contextually, providing an authentic learning environment. Based on the learner’s progress, the app suggests new lessons, building a personalized learning path.
3. Memrise (iOS and Android)
Memrise is known for its innovative approach to learning languages. Apart from common phrases and vocabulary, the app focuses on colloquial expressions and slang. Its actual users make the content, giving you firsthand experience of the language’s real-world use. Furthermore, the app uses a spaced repetition system (SRS) ensuring efficient memory retention, which is why Memrise stands as a top choice for learning slang.
4. StreetSmart (iOS and Android)
StreetSmart brings together people who want to learn a language’s local dynamic, including its slang. The app encourages users to upload, share, and learn different expressions typically not taught in standard courses. With StreetSmart, you can practice with native speakers, ensuring accurate pronunciation and use of slang.
5. Speaky (iOS and Android)
Speaky is positioned as a social language-learning app where users can interact with native speakers from around the world. You could be texting, sending voice notes, or even video calling to practice the language and its accompanying slang. It brings an all-rounded language experience, effectively integrating slang learning into conversational practice.
6. Busuu (iOS and Android)
With its 100 million+ global community, Busuu creates an interactive environment for learning languages. The app offers specialized slang lessons, allowing users to exchange knowledge with natives, refining their slang understanding in the process. In addition, Busuu lessons are based on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), ensuring high-quality language content.
7. Tandem (iOS and Android)
While Tandem is a fully-fledged language learning platform, it thrives as a community of passionate language learners ready to exchange their knowledge. Here, learners can pick up slang naturally as they interact with natives for language exchange. This app supports video calls, voice chats, text messages, and photo sharing, accommodating diverse learning preferences.
8. HelloTalk (iOS and Android)
HelloTalk takes language exchange to a new level as it offers over 150 languages, venturing into the respective slangs. With this app, users can learn and teach languages while making friends across the globe. The app also has translation, pronunciation, correction, and transliteration features that boost its effectiveness in learning slang.
9. Rosetta Stone (iOS and Android)
A long-standing language learning platform, Rosetta Stone, has evolved to remain relevant in digital language education. While it focuses on learning languages holistically, its TruAccent™ speech recognition technology aids in learning slang and local phrases. The live tutoring sessions also offer a platform where learners can be introduced to colloquial language alongside formal training.
10. iTalki (iOS and Android)
iTalki connects users with language tutors across the globe for personalized classes. Here, learners can request slang lessons, making it one of the effective apps for tailored slang learning. It’s an excellent app for learners who prefer a formal setting but want to learn the more casual side of a language.
These top apps for learning slang aim at breaking down language barriers by adding a layer of cultural relevance to language learning. Their innovative teaching approaches provide an authentic learning environment, ensuring learners keep up with the fast-paced evolution of slang in the 21st Century. Hence, whether you’re an avid language enthusiast or looking to grasp the local lingo for your next adventure, these apps bring the world’s slang to your fingertips.
