After learning the basics of a language, making the jump to intermediate or advanced levels can be difficult. However, there’s a quick and easy way to supplement your language learning that only costs $6.99 a month: Netflix.
In this post, we’ll show you how to use Netflix—or another streaming platform of your choice—to learn any new language.
Why Learn Languages Using Netflix?
- Immersion Without Travel: Traditionally, immersion meant relocating to a country where your target language is spoken. But with Netflix, you can immerse yourself in authentic dialogue, cultural contexts, and regional accents—all without leaving your couch.
- Everyday Language: Unlike formal textbooks, shows and movies introduce you to colloquial expressions, slang, and real-life conversations that native speakers use daily.
- Multisensory Learning: Combining visuals, audio, and subtitles gives your brain multiple cues to understand and remember words, phrases, and grammar.
Step-by-Step Guide to Learning a Language on Netflix
1. Choose the Right Show
Your show selection can make or break your experience. Beginners might benefit from simple, predictable content like cartoons or kids’ shows. Intermediate or advanced learners can try out dramas, comedies, or documentaries.
The key is to pick a genre you love to stay engaged over time!
2. Turn On Subtitles (Strategically)
- Start with subtitles in your native language to understand the story.
- Transition to subtitles in your target language to reinforce spoken and written connections.
- Advanced learners can go subtitle-free for full immersion.
3. Prioritize Comprehension
Watching a show should be enjoyable, so don’t feel pressured to catch every word right away.
- Begin by watching an episode or scene for the general gist.
- Rewatch key sections with unfamiliar phrases, pausing to listen closely.
4. Makes Notes and Flaschards and Review
While watching, jot down new phrases, idioms, or vocab. Focus on words you’re likely to use in real life.
5. Use Tools to Enhance your Learning
Manually writing notes can be tedious, but tech can help with this.
Tools like Dekki Reactor, LingoPie, and Language Reactor allow you to quickly capture Netflix subtitles and study these at a later time.
The Science Behind Learning Languages Through Media
Netflix doesn’t just make language learning fun—it’s also scientifically effective.
Contextual Learning
When you hear new words within a story, your brain connects them to visuals, emotions, and context, making them easier to remember.
Spaced Repetition
Research shows that reviewing information at increasing intervals improves retention. Tools like Anki and Dekki integrate this principle, helping you revisit vocabulary at just the right time.
Active Recall
By turning passive watching into active studying—quizzing yourself on vocab, pausing to repeat phrases, or mimicking accents—you solidify what you’ve learned.
The next time you press play on Netflix, approach it with a learner’s mindset. Experiment with different genres, subtitles, and strategies to see what works best for you.
If you’re ready to take your language learning to the next level, try tools like Dekki Reactor to streamline the process by converting Netflix subtitles into flashcards that you can study. Happy learning!
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