Afrikaans may not be the world’s most widely spoken language, but it is a rewarding one. With its relatively easy grammar and pronunciation, you’ll quickly be able to express yourself in conversation. And if you’re planning to travel to South Africa or have an interest in its history, understanding Afrikaans will give you extra insight into the culture.
If you’re already familiar with the different ways to learn Afrikaans and want to read our reviews and recommendations for Afrikaans language resources, check out these posts:
Learn Afrikaans effectively with our expert guide—discover self-study resources, tips, and best apps that actually work to guide you from beginner to fluent.
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Just over 7 million people speak Afrikaans as their first language. Most of these live in South Africa and Namibia, but it’s also spoken in Botswana, Zimbabwe, and many other places around the world (including, curiously, a small community in Patagonia, Argentina).
So if you’re wondering how to learn Afrikaans, keep reading: we’ve included a few pointers to help you know what to expect and prepare yourself accordingly as you start learning Afrikaans.
Why You Should Learn Afrikaans: A Friendly Guide to a Surprisingly Easy Language
Learning Afrikaans feels a little like stumbling across a secret passage in the house of world languages. It’s not only one of South Africa’s official languages, but it’s also spoken in Namibia and by communities across the globe. Simple grammar, a chill vibe, and vocabulary that’s oddly familiar (especially if you’ve studied German, Dutch, or English!) make it an ideal choice for language lovers looking for something new.
For me, the language first popped onto my radar while browsing the spice aisle of a grocery store in Cape Town, eyeing unfamiliar sauces with names like tamatiesmoor and biltong. As a former digital nomad (and part-time supermarket explorer), I was instantly hooked. There’s something about a language that’s so connected to history and food that makes it feel personal. That’s when I decided to learn Afrikaans—and honestly, it’s one of the most unexpectedly fun languages I’ve tried.
If you’re someone who geeks out over linguistic overlaps, loves exploring the roots of words, or just wants to try bobotie in its natural habitat—learning Afrikaans could be your next great adventure. Bonus? It’s actually known as one of the easiest languages for English speakers to pick up. So if you’ve ever wondered how to learn Afrikaans, this is your sign to dive in.
About the Afrikaans Language
Most people already know a few words in common European and Asian languages, from bonjour in French to sushi in Japanese.
You might be surprised to find out, however, that you also know a couple of Afrikaans words. There’s aardvark, which translates to “earth pig,” and meerkat, which means “lake cat.”
And then there is apartheid, meaning “apartness.”
It’s impossible to discuss Afrikaans without touching on colonialism, the slave trade, and apartheid. A daughter language of Dutch, it was born out of the European Scramble for Africa. It’s also influenced by Portuguese, German, and French; the indigenous Khoisan and Bantu languages; and the Asian languages spoken by enslaved people in Africa.
Historically looked down on as “kitchen Dutch,” it was only in 1925 that Afrikaans was legally considered as valid as Dutch and English. This meant that teachers could finally use it in mainstream schools – although Muslim schools had already been using it instead of Malay for over a century.
Just decades later, in 1974, South Africans of color would find themselves forced to speak Afrikaans instead of their native language. This continued throughout apartheid, resulting in protests, police violence, and deaths.
Today, Afrikaans remains possibly the most controversial of South Africa’s 11 official languages. Many activists of color support the use of English in academia, even though only 40% of those who speak Afrikaans at home are white.
Yet while it may be controversial, Afrikaans is a vibrant language. According to the 2011 census, it is South Africa’s third most spoken-at-home language. It’s also spoken in several other African countries. Politicians use it, as do artists and comedians. Films, books, and songs are all written and produced in it.
For millions of people around the world, Afrikaans represents their identity, history, and culture.
6 Fascinating Reasons to Start Learning Afrikaans Today
- It’s Incredibly Easy for English Speakers
Out of all the languages I’ve studied (and I’ve dabbled in a lot), Afrikaans has one of the friendliest grammar systems. No verb conjugations, no gendered nouns, no cases—just a straightforward subject-verb-object structure. You’ll be saying “Ek leer Afrikaans” (I’m learning Afrikaans) faster than you can say “subjunctive mood.” - It’s Closely Related to Dutch (But Simpler!)
Afrikaans evolved from 17th-century Dutch and still shares much of its vocabulary with it. But while Dutch kept a lot of grammatical complexity, Afrikaans streamlined it. Think of Afrikaans as Dutch’s laid-back cousin who’s fun at parties and doesn’t stress over grammar rules. If you’ve studied German or Dutch before, you’ll spot familiar patterns right away. - A Unique Blend of Cultures
The Afrikaans language developed in a multicultural setting, influenced by Dutch, Malay, Portuguese, indigenous Khoisan languages, and more. That blend makes for a super interesting vocabulary and cultural mix. And as someone obsessed with history (and local markets!), I find it fascinating how language reflects so many cross-cultural influences. - Afrikaans Is Spoken Worldwide
While it’s one of South Africa’s 12 official languages, you’ll also hear Afrikaans in Namibia and among communities in Australia, the UK, and even Canada. Learning Afrikaans gives you access to a truly global (and welcoming) group of speakers. It’s also the third most spoken language in South Africa—so if you’re planning a visit, it’s incredibly useful. - A Language of Literature and Music
Afrikaans has a rich literary and music scene. From poets like Ingrid Jonker to the catchy rhythms of Afrikaans pop, there’s a whole creative world to explore. Once you understand the lyrics and lines, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of the culture—and a few favorite playlist additions, trust me. - It’s a Language of Warmth and Humor
Afrikaans is packed with expressive phrases and down-to-earth humor. Sayings like “’n Appel val nie ver van die boom af nie” (“An apple doesn’t fall far from the tree”) feel familiar and cozy. Learning these everyday expressions makes conversations more fun and connects you to local culture in a real way.
Why Afrikaans Is One of the Easiest Languages to Learn (Really!)
- Logical Grammar
Forget case systems or complicated tenses. Afrikaans grammar is refreshingly simple. The past tense? Often just one word: Ek het geslaap = “I slept.” No verb charts needed. - No Gendered Nouns
Unlike German or French, Afrikaans nouns aren’t gendered. That means fewer articles to memorize and more mental space for fun phrases like ek is honger soos ‘n wolf (“I’m hungry like a wolf”). - Consistent Pronunciation
Once you learn how letters sound in Afrikaans, you’re mostly set. The spelling rules are logical, and the sounds don’t shift around like they do in English. That’s a win. - Lots of Free Resources
Wondering how to learn Afrikaans without flying to South Africa? You’re in luck. Between YouTube lessons, podcasts, mobile apps, and language exchanges, it’s totally possible to learn Afrikaans online. Bonus points if you follow South African cooking channels for delicious vocab practice.
How to Learn Afrikaans
We’ve got some good news for you: Afrikaans is a relatively easy language. If you already speak Dutch, German, or English, many words and phrases will seem familiar.
Since Afrikaans is spelled phonetically, you won’t need to add pronunciation notes to all your flashcards. You will benefit from drilling “r” and “g” pronunciation, however, along with diphthongs. You can get started with that here.
Ignore the myth that there are no irregular verbs in Afrikaans: even “wees,” or “to be,” is irregular. However, since only a few verbs break the rules, you’ll be able to learn them quickly.
Making it even easier, the verbs don’t decline, i.e. they don’t change depending on the speaker (“I am/you are/it is…”). And while Afrikaans has gendered pronouns, there is no grammatical gender. Like in English, you can say “she sits,” but the chair she sits on will be neither male nor female.
The best way to learn Afrikaans will depend on your goals, personality, and how much spare time you have. Is your aim to travel in South Africa or make friends there? You’ll probably want to focus on speaking and listening. Alternatively, if you want to read the news in Afrikaans or talk to online friends, prioritize reading and writing.
How much spare time do you have? If possible, practice daily. A little every day is better than three hours once a week, especially if you’re aiming for spoken fluency.
It’s important to use the tools that best suit you. Someone else’s favorite app may bore you, while popular South African TV shows might fail to make you laugh. Find things that you like, such as music and films, so that you stay motivated.
That being said, you’ll probably want some balance in your Afrikaans studies. Drill vocabulary with flashcards, keep a diary to improve your fluency, and practice your listening frequently – especially if you can’t spend a lot of time with native speakers.
Read aloud to focus on your pronunciation. Experiment with different language-learning resources until you find the ones that work for you (and remember that these might change as your level of Afrikaans improves).
And most importantly of all, stay positive. Keep track of your progress and don’t let a bad day affect your self-confidence.
The Afrikaans Alphabet and Pronunciation Tips
Afrikaans uses the Latin alphabet, just like English, with a few pronunciation quirks to keep things interesting.
Key tips:
- G is a throaty sound, similar to the Scottish “loch.”
- J is pronounced like “Y” in English (e.g., ja = yes).
- UI makes a unique diphthong you’ll just have to practice (but it’s fun to say!).
But overall? Reading and spelling in Afrikaans is surprisingly logical. One of the many reasons it’s great for language learners.
Basic Afrikaans Phrases for Beginners
Want to impress your new Afrikaans-speaking friends? Start with these basics:
- Hallo! – Hello!
- Hoe gaan dit? – How are you?
- Dankie – Thank you
- Baie dankie – Thank you very much
- Ek verstaan nie – I don’t understand
- Asseblief – Please
- Verskoon my – Excuse me / Sorry
- Ja / Nee – Yes / No
- Ek praat Afrikaans – I speak Afrikaans
- Waar is die badkamer? – Where is the bathroom?
- Ek wil ‘n koffie hê– I would like a coffee (Important, always.)
- Totsiens! – Goodbye!
These simple expressions can open doors, spark laughs, and help you feel like a part of the local rhythm. Knowing just a few words makes a world of difference, especially when you’re trying to order bunny chow or find the Rooibos tea section at the store.
Where to Learn Afrikaans
Learn Afrikaans Online: Tools and Tips for Getting Started
Wondering how to learn Afrikaans in a way that fits your lifestyle? Here’s how to get started:
- Apps: Ling, Clozemaster, and LingQ all offer beginner-friendly Afrikaans courses.
- YouTube: Channels like “Learn Afrikaans with AfrikaansPod101” are full of useful vocabulary and cultural tips.
- Music & Movies: Listening to Afrikaans music and watching South African films with subtitles is a fun way to immerse yourself.
- Language Exchange: Platforms like Tandem or HelloTalk connect you with native speakers for conversation practice.
- Flashcards: Use apps like Anki or Quizlet to build your vocabulary over time.
Whether you’re in Chiang Mai, Neuchâtel, or just your favorite reading nook, you can learn Afrikaans online at your own pace.
Afrikaans Language Learning Resources
Learn Afrikaans Apps
Language learning apps offer a more flexible method of learning and help you build you skills at your own pace. With features like interactive exercises, flashcards and pronunciation tools, apps make learning easy and effective.
Ling
Ling is a gamified language-learning app with courses on over 60 different languages. Practice happens through short themed lessons, making for convenient and entertaining study time. It isn’t the most comprehensive resource out there, especially for more popular languages, but it can make a decent way to get started with a less common language.
See our Super-Detailed Ling Review
Clozemaster
Ideal for people who are already at an upper beginner/intermediate level, Clozemaster will help you build your vocabulary and learn new words and sentences in context. While you won’t learn much grammar or improve your speaking and writing much, it is great at what it does and the videogame aspect makes it fun and addictive to work though. Although the exercises are all pretty much identical, there are various ways in which you can increase the difficulty and Clozemaster’s free account is almost as good as the Pro User one.
See our Super-Detailed Clozemaster Review
Anki
It is the go-to app for free (except on iOS) Spaced Repetition System (SRS) flashcards. It has a simple user interface with various features that more hard-core users can dive into if they choose. Your flashcards will appear according to your natural forgetting curve; the app will test you in increasingly spaced out intervals, with more difficult cards appearing more than once in a session, while easier cards spacing out over weeks — or even months and years. An SRS system is the most effective way to drive information into your long-term memory. The cards can sync between the web, desktop app, and mobile versions to keep your flashcards updated and with you at all times. You can add images and audio clips to your cards and change the text formatting (if you use it on your computer). One feature unique to Anki, as opposed to other SRS flashcard apps, is the “Cloze deletion” function, which allows you to block out parts of your card and create a “fill-in-the-blanks” type card format. If you want a resource for how to make effective flashcards, check out the book, FluentForever. The author leaves a whole section dedicated to understanding how to use your Anki deck to advance your skills quickly.
See our Super-Detailed Anki Review
uTalk
uTalk is a software program and mobile app offering learning material in over 140 languages. Its approach is based on learning keywords and phrases through gameplay. It covers a wide range of phrases, each spoken by a female and male native speaker, consequently offering listening and pronunciation practice. uTalk is most useful for beginners who want to get started in a language by learning key phrases. It could also be useful for intermediates looking to fill gaps in their vocabulary and pronunciation, but it does not offer any in-depth language instruction or grammar explanations. It’s also worth mentioning that for some languages, such as Basque, the occasional overly literal translation leads to small errors and unnatural phrasing creeping in. However, we haven’t seen instances in which this would result in you being misunderstood, and there’s no denying uTalk’s value for languages with fewer learning resources.
See our Super-Detailed uTalk Review
Brainscape
Brainscape is a flashcard app that uses a Spaced Repetition System, also often referred to as ‘adaptive flashcards’, to help you memorize new vocabulary and facts. It has a team of scientists, engineers, and education experts working to optimize their program for effective learning. Brainscape is quite similar to Anki, but has a more modern and colourful interface. They also have Certified Classes, which are decks that seem to have been developed by experts in the chosen topic. The app adds what they call Intelligent Cumulative Exposure (ICE) to some of their Certified Classes; it seems to combine a Spaced Repetition System with gradually introducing new concepts, increasing the difficulty of the concepts, and providing context so you can build your own sentences.
See our Super-Detailed Brainscape Review
Forvo
Forvo’s mission is to improve spoken communication across cultures. Anyone can explore pronunciations of millions of words in over 390 languages with maps displaying where each speaker is from. The site also organizes popular categories and essential phrases for when you don’t have a specific word in mind. As a registered user, you can contribute to the site by pronouncing words or phrases in your native language or by requesting pronunciations in a specific language. You are also encouraged to vote on audio files in your native language to help others identify the best pronunciation. For those of you who enjoy using Anki, Forvo allows you to download mp3 files to use in your learning endeavours.
See our Super-Detailed Forvo Review
Simply Learn
In Simply Learn, by Simya Solutions, you can search for and review over 1000 phrases in over 30 categories. It takes the typical phrasebook app one step further by allowing you to add your favorite phrases to SRS flashcards. Given that its developers also developed Ling, an additional, more comprehensive resource that supports language learning, it seems that Simply Learn is a supplementary app for individuals who need to learn basic phrases for traveling abroad. The creators don’t seem to have intended for people to use this app to learn a language in its entirety, but rather to support them in memorizing basic phrases for travel.
See our Super-Detailed Simply Learn Review
World Schoolbooks
World Schoolbooks is a language learning app that specializes in teaching high density and under-resourced languages. It aims to put a spotlight on the many important languages all around the world that get overlooked such as Afrikaans, Brahui, Kikuyu and many more.
You have the option to learn languages with audio from your native language. Additionally, for the languages with audio, you can set your native language as the same one that you’re learning, the app will switch to immersion mode to keep you focused and reduce any distractions. The app incorporates quizzes and vocabulary games that work to test your vocabulary knowledge in a fun and engaging way.
See our Super-Detailed World Schoolbooks Review
African Storybook
Struggling to find beginner-level Afrikaans or Yoruba reading materials? Spanish books relevant to Equatorial Guinea instead of Spain or Colombia? Stories in Nigerian Pidgin or Cape Verdean Creole? African Storybook has thousands of free-to-read children’s stories in various African languages, from Acholi through to Zinza. Most of them were written by African authors. The website is best for beginner and lower-intermediate students. The stories are generally designed for young children, with easy-to-read sentences that introduce you to basic vocabulary and some variation in tenses. The difficulty is graded from one to five, with five being the most challenging.
See our Super-Detailed African Storybook Review
Glosbe Dictionary
Glosbe is a dictionary that serves over 6000 languages. Most words have a list of definitions, conjugations, declensions, and similar phrases (although these phrases are hit or miss when it comes to how relevant they are to the initial entry). Many of the entries are created by community members, who can add and edit translations, example sentences, pronunciations, and images. Also, the site does not use text-to-voice pronunciation — as a result, some words may not have any pronunciation. It’s important to note that some of the content is not checked by the creators, such as the example sentences. Be careful if you are trying to learn new phrases from these lists, as although many of them are correct, there are a few that may lead you to learn inaccurate vocabulary or grammar.
See our Super-Detailed Glosbe Dictionary Review
50Languages
It is clear that 50Languages aims to make language learning accessible to anyone with an internet connection There is no signup required to use the site, so its resources are both free, and anonymous. You can find 100 free downloadable audio files of native speakers and ‘lessons’ in over 50 languages, in addition to vocabulary, alphabets, quizzes, and games. Unfortunately, none of these resources follow a cohesive learning path, nor does the platform help you memorize any of the information provided. 50Languages has a lot of information available, but it doesn’t seem like it can be used as a standalone language resource. Perhaps you can take phrases and vocabulary that interest you and compiled them into an Anki deck to help with retention.
See our Super-Detailed 50Languages Review
Bluebird Languages
Bluebird Languages has several types of lessons you can choose from, including a daily lesson, core vocabulary, essential verbs, creating sentences, powerful phrases, and conversation. Each topic seems to have a beginner, intermediate, and advanced lesson, although it’s not clear how advanced “advanced” is. In each lesson, an English-speaking narrator will ask you to listen to and repeat translations of various phrases. The recordings in each language seem to use native speakers’ voices, which is quite the feat considering they have lessons in over 160 languages.
See our Super-Detailed Bluebird Languages Review
HelloTalk
HelloTalk is a mobile app for language learners interested in language exchange. It facilitates communication between native speakers and those learning their language with the use of built-in language tools. It also offers audio lessons in 10 languages as part of a separate subscription.
See our Super-Detailed HelloTalk Review
Tandem
Tandem is a popular language exchange app with over one million active users. It’s available for iOS and Android and aims to bring language learners from all over the world together. It’s largely centered around its chat capabilities and language tools that facilitate communication, but there is also a tutoring service offered in the app.
See our Super-Detailed Tandem Review
Speaky
Speaky is a social language-learning app for people interested in language exchange. It’s available for iOS, Android, and the web. Users can chat with other language learners, share photos, leave voice messages or even have voice calls. The basic features on Speaky are free to use, but access to more than five translations per day requires a subscription.
See our Super-Detailed Speaky Review
Afrikaans Made Easy, Learn Afrikaans Language App, Afrikaans flashcards, Beter Afrikaans and Tobo: Learn Afrikaans Words will help with vocabulary and grammar practice while Afrikaans – Listening Speaking helps with listening and speaking.
Afrikaans Courses
Online courses are perfect for those looking for a well rounded and comprehensive resource to help you master the basics and build a strong foundation in Afrikaans.
Preply
Preply is an online educational platform that matches tutors with students. There are tutors on Preply offering instruction in a wide range of languages and other subjects. As a learner, you can find a tutor that works best for you by browsing their demo videos and filtering by price and rating. Each tutor’s teaching style is their own, but they all receive teacher trainings and resources to improve their style.
Exclusive 50% discount for ALR readers! Make sure to use our link to receive it.
See our Super-Detailed Preply Review
italki
italki is the most flexible and affordable place to find a tutor for the language you’re learning. They have a huge number of teachers offering classes to students of over 100 different languages. As a learner, you’ll be able to find a tutor that best fits your learning style, schedule, and personality. Teachers are able to set their own prices and make their own schedule.
See our Super-Detailed italki Review
AfrikaansPod101
AfrikaansPod101 offers audio and video lessons (though they’re mostly audio) for learning Afrikaans. They’re similar to a podcast with two hosts teaching the language with the help of natural dialogues. They take the time to explain key grammar points, vocabulary, interesting cultural information, and so on. Their tends to be more content for beginners and the lesson structure could be improved. As such, it’s better as a supplementary tool for improving your Afrikaans, rather than a standalone course.
Summer sale! Get up to 45% OFF Basic, Premium and Premium PLUS Plans. See details on the website. Extended!
See our Super-Detailed AfrikaansPod101 Review
LingQ
LingQ is a language-learning platform that focuses on extensive reading for over 30 different languages. You can import your own content or choose from the community library of books, articles, podcasts, YouTube videos, and more.
The app highlights unknown words across every lesson and makes them reviewable via different types of SRS flashcards. The more you read, the more accurately you will be able to identify content that is suitable for your level.
Although I did not find it beneficial for languages I had never studied before, I think LingQ can be helpful for upper-beginner to advanced language learners who enjoy reading. It is especially helpful if you struggle to find graded readers in your target language.
See our Super-Detailed LingQ Review
Transparent Language
Transparent Language markets itself as “the most complete language-learning system for independent learners.” While there are lots of different exercises for you to work through in their Essentials Course, I thought that the material wasn’t all that helpful and that it got very repetitive. Although the courses might not be all that useful or in-depth, with over a hundred languages on offer it might be worth checking out if you want to learn the very basics of a more obscure language such as Buriat, Kazakh or Turkmen.
See our Super-Detailed Transparent Language Review
Mondly
Mondly is a language-learning app that teaches basic vocabulary and grammar structures. It seems most appropriate for learners with little to no exposure to their target language.
The activities mostly rely on passive recognition of vocabulary and phrases, and therefore are not very challenging. However, they are varied enough that you probably wouldn’t get bored with short, daily practice sessions.
Although I wouldn’t recommend Mondly to anyone looking to seriously learn a language, it may be appropriate for individuals studying languages with less available resources, or for individuals who are preparing to travel abroad.
See our Super-Detailed Mondly Review
lingohut
Kendal and Philipp, the creators of the LingoHut, are passionate about teaching languages. Their website supposedly helps A1 and A2 language learners develop their confidence in listening and pronunciation. All audio clips were recorded by native speakers so that beginners can get accustomed to natural pronunciation, and each lesson has a series of matching games for listening comprehension and reading.
See our Super-Detailed lingohut Review
Udemy
Udemy is a helpful resource for learning Afrikaans. Courses range from one to over four hours and are available with a range of instructors. Each class has a money-back guarantee, but you also receive lifetime access to whichever courses you buy. The video format helps hone your listening and speaking skills, but many instructors offer written supplements, too.
If you’re getting started with Afrikaans, online tools can make learning way easier. Afrikaans.us, Easy Afrikaans and Viva Afrikaans are great places to start. They’re packed with grammar tips, vocabulary lists, audio clips and culture notes to help you really get into the language. iLanguages has Afrikaans basics too, perfect for a fast overview, and Tatoeba is great for reference.
If you want to quickly look up Afrikaans verbs and see how they’re conjugated, Cooljugator is a lifesaver. And if you want to practice reading, Readlang has an Afrikaans library where you can click on any word for a translation as you read, which makes picking up new vocabulary really simple. My Language Exchange helps you practice with a native speaker.
Afrikaans Books
If you’re diving into Afrikaans, books can be a total game-changer. Colloquial Afrikaans, Complete Afrikaans Beginner to Intermediate Book and Audio Course or Teach Yourself Afrikaans are beginner-friendly and helps you move steadily from the basics.
For looking up words or phrases, Afrikaans-English, English-Afrikaans Dictionary and Hippocrene Practical Dictionary: Afrikaans-English / English-Afrikaans Dictionary and English-Afrikaans phrasebook and 1500-word dictionary can be a huge help when you’re confused about a word. If your interest is comparative language learning, then Comparative Grammar of German, Dutch and Afrikaans and Comparative Grammar of German, Dutch, Afrikaans, Yiddish and Frisian will help you see how languages connect!
When you’re ready for real-world reading, LitNet has tons of free Afrikaans articles and stories online, and Reader’s Warehouse has a bunch of Afrikaans books to get lost in. Plus, if you love a good thriller, South African author Deon Meyer has a ton of gripping novels in Afrikaans.
YouTube Channels for Learning Afrikaans
If you’re learning Afrikaans, YouTube is honestly one of the best free tools out there! Your Afrikaans Channel and Afrikaans with Lindie have beginner-friendly explanations and super clear speaking so you can really hear every word. Bad Teacher (don’t worry, the name’s just for laughs) and ET Afrikaans have videos that break down tricky grammar and everyday phrases.
Pinhok Languages Vocabulary Playlist, Learn Afrikaans, Let’s Learn Afrikaans and Teach Me Afrikaans can help you pick up useful words quickly. For kids, Teacher Antonette, Wow Afrikaans Is Easy!, Afri-kan: Afrikaans Learning Made Fun! and Leer Afrikaans 123 are some fun channels that kids could enjoy.
If you’re up for a challenge, check out Katinka Oosthuizan, Vetkoek Paleis, kyknettv or SABC2. And if comedy isn’t your cup of tea, AKTV’s videos feature arts, culture, and societal topics.
Watching even just a few videos a day can make a huge difference. And if you love learning on the go, Afrikaans podcasts are a great way to get some extra practice.
Local Media Resources for Learning Afrikaans
Providing you like the songs and are motivated enough to look up the lyrics, music can help you learn new vocabulary and practice your listening. Just make sure that a phrase isn’t poetic license before you use it in conversation!
Start with playlists to find the songs and artists you like. If you have Spotify, try this, this, this, and this one. None of these to your liking? Use the search function to find Afrikaans playlists in your favorite musical genres, from rock to gospel.
You can also increase your vocabulary and learn more about South African or Namibian culture by reading the news. Try Maroela Media, Afrikaans.com, Beeld, NetWerk24, and Die Vryburger.
Once you start learning Afrikaans, you’ll discover that there are plenty of opportunities to speak and read it. So, what are you waiting for? Start scrolling Afrikaans.us, adding your new vocabulary to Ankidroid, and exploring South African books, movies, and songs. Jy kan dit done!
Challenges of Learning Afrikaans (And Why They’re Totally Worth It)
Even though it’s relatively simple, every language has its curveballs. In Afrikaans learning, you might face:
- Pronunciation quirks that take a little time to master (especially that guttural “G”).
- Unique idioms that don’t always translate word-for-word, but make total sense once you learn them.
- Fewer resources than big languages like Spanish or French—but that just makes your learning journey more unique.
But honestly? These “challenges” are part of the charm.
Why Learning Afrikaans Is So Worth It
Learning Afrikaans gives you access to a whole world of people, history, and culture—plus one of the friendliest language communities I’ve ever met. It’s approachable, expressive, and endlessly fun to use.
Whether you’re planning a trip to Cape Town, diving into South African literature, or just want to explore a lesser-known (but beautiful!) language, learning Afrikaans is an experience worth savoring.
So… hoe begin jy? (How do you begin?)
Start today—and see where Afrikaans takes you.
FAQs
How to speak Afrikaans?
To speak Afrikaans, start by learning basic phrases, practicing pronunciation, and using language apps or tutors for speaking practice. Afrikaans is phonetic and has simple grammar, making it easier to speak than many languages. Daily speaking, listening to native speakers, and language immersion are key to building fluency.
Is Afrikaans easy to learn?
Yes, Afrikaans is one of the easiest languages for English speakers to learn. It has no verb conjugations by subject, no noun genders, simple grammar, and a vocabulary with strong ties to English and Dutch. Its straightforward pronunciation and spelling make it beginner-friendly, though learners may need time to adjust to its word order and double negatives.
What is the best way to learn Afrikaans?
The best way to learn Afrikaans is to match your method to your learning style. For interactive and visual learners, language apps like Ling make learning fun and effective. If you prefer structure and accountability, working with a tutor is ideal. Self-motivated learners can build a personalized curriculum using online resources and textbooks. For the fastest results, immersing yourself in an Afrikaans-speaking environment (such as traveling or living in South Africa) offers real-world practice that accelerates fluency.
What is the easiest way to learn Afrikaans?
The easiest way to learn Afrikaans is through immersive exposure and daily practice. Swap your usual Netflix shows for Afrikaans TV series, read news sites and blogs in Afrikaans, and explore the culture like cooking South African dishes—for added motivation. Combine this with short daily study sessions using apps or flashcards to build vocabulary and grammar. Surrounding yourself with the language in fun, low-pressure ways makes learning feel natural and enjoyable.
How long does it take to learn Afrikaans?
Afrikaans is one of the easiest languages for English speakers to learn, taking about 600 hours of study to reach fluency, according to the U.S. Foreign Service Institute. With consistent daily practice around an hour a day, you could become fluent in 12–18 months. Learners with a background in Dutch or regular speaking practice with native speakers may progress much faster. Your pace depends on your consistency, prior language experience, and opportunities to practice.
How to learn Afrikaans fast?
To learn Afrikaans fast, commit to 1–2 hours of focused study each day. If that’s hard, start by identifying free time with a quick 15-minute daily schedule audit. Use that time for language apps or daily tutor sessions, which are far more effective than weekend cramming. The key is consistent, repetitive practice, and daily exposure helps your brain absorb vocabulary and grammar faster, leading to quicker progress and stronger retention.
Dankie!
This is a useful article to read, and gives me many ways to approach learning Afrikaans.