If you’ve been aching to learn Hungarian but have found it difficult to get the full experience due to your location, the price tag of lessons, or your available time, then you have come upon the right place. If you have the drive and desire to learn Hungarian, you have tons of free resources available to you, whether you know it or not. Take a look at some of these ideas and figure out which option is right for you, or make use of all of these resources for a well-rounded learning experience!
Language Exchange Partner
If you’re unfamiliar with the concept, the idea is that everyone has something to teach one another, so instead of paying for lessons, teach them yourself and get them in return! Speak English? Connect with a partner who has the ability to teach you Hungarian in exchange for English lessons. This is a great option as your partner can guide you through the steps of learning, open you up to valuable learning resources, give you cultural insight, and be a great conversation practice partner. Of course, LRNGO offers a free platform for you to connect with an exchange partner near you or anywhere in the world via video chat.
YouTube
If you like to learn visually and enjoy a lecture-type format when learning, try checking out some Hungarian learning YouTube videos! HungarianPod101 offers a ton of great videos that give you the info you’re looking for in quick, fun segments—some even as short as three minutes! This is perfect for you to get an introduction on the language and culture basics. You can also check out the Hungarian Project, which offers videos for beginners that focus on making the basics easy, from compound words to conjugations. The channel also includes opinion videos on some Hungarian issues, giving you exposure to the modern day concerns of the country.
Podcasts
Because you can listen to them anywhere while doing almost anything, podcasts are a great way to get your ear to practice understanding Hungarian. Let’s Learn Hungarian offers a few great situational podcasts, but is unfortunately no longer updated. HungarianPod101 also offers some free podcasts on the ITunes store, as well as a downloadable version of their YouTube videos previously mentioned. You can also check out some Hungarian radio stations if you’re at a higher learning level.
Other Sites
Some sites seem to have it all, like Hungarian 101, which offers you links to Hungarian news, radio, and TV for practice, as well as a basic Hungarian course, pronunciation help, and vocabulary lists, making this a one stop shop for all of your free Hungarian learning needs.
Also be sure to check out Benny the Irish Polyglot’s advice for language learners aiming to speak Hungarian that is a worthwhile read as you get started on your journey!
Photo Credit: Dennis Jarvis