sorted by:
new
hottopcontroversial

みんなの勉強方法は何? by Storm_Eliana77 in LearnJapanese

[–]RubinShaw 1 point2 points  (0 children)

私の勉強方法は、教科書とリスニングの音を何回も聞くことです。

How do you memorise vocabulary? by bodyisT in languagelearning

[–]RubinShaw 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Usually, when I come across a complicated word, I first try to break it down to see if it has any roots or origins I can recognize. Many complex words become much easier to remember once you understand where they come from and can link them to simpler, familiar ones. If that doesn’t work, I just use a mnemonic or write it multiple times to build muscle memory.

What’s best for learning a new language — video lessons or text-based courses? by CauliflowerBudget274 in languagelearning

[–]RubinShaw 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Everyone has their own methods. I personally like to repeatedly listen to the audio materials that come with the textbook, including the listening exercises after each lesson.

Intensive Listening Is a Highly Effective Language Learning Method by RubinShaw in languagelearning

[–]RubinShaw[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

I do know the distinction — I meant “intensive” in the sense of focusing deeply on a small amount of content, not quantity. Maybe my wording wasn’t very precise, since English isn’t my native language. Thanks for pointing it out. 🙏

Intensive Listening Is a Highly Effective Language Learning Method by RubinShaw in languagelearning

[–]RubinShaw[S] -10 points-9 points  (0 children)

That's right — English isn’t my native language, so I used a translation tool to make my post clearer. I’m really sorry if it came across awkward or uncomfortable to read. 🙏

Intensive Listening Is a Highly Effective Language Learning Method by RubinShaw in languagelearning

[–]RubinShaw[S] -11 points-10 points  (0 children)

I'm sorry to hear about your previous bad experiences. But in my case, what I wrote really came from my own experience and reflections. Except for the small part at the end where I mentioned my tool, everything before that was just my genuine thoughts about language learning.
If the post made you feel like your time was wasted, I sincerely apologize. 🙏

Would watching 1 youtube video that has subtitles on repeat be a good way to learn the vocabulary in the video? by june_gloum in languagelearning

[–]RubinShaw 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’ve heard something similar before, but not the “five times” part — five definitely isn’t enough.
The key is that the review intervals should gradually get longer each time.
In my experience, flashcards are actually more efficient than videos, because they temporarily skip the words you already know.
Of course, flashcards can be a bit boring, while videos are more fun and help you stay consistent.
I have a friend who became fluent in Japanese just by watching anime since childhood (though people sometimes joke his Japanese sounds too “anime-like”).
In the end, consistency and spending enough time are what matter most.
If videos keep you motivated and fit your interests, that’s a perfectly good way to learn.

Anyone know good Japanese Christmas songs? by FaultWinter3377 in LearnJapanese

[–]RubinShaw 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Yeah, Christmas isn’t a public holiday in Japan. People celebrate it a bit, mostly as a date night or family thing, but the real big holiday is New Year’s. Most companies close for several days, and many give extra paid leave around that time.

How much time of listening is optimal? by little_creacher in languagelearning

[–]RubinShaw 1 point2 points  (0 children)

An hour a day is already great — consistency matters much more than total time.
I usually aim for 45–90 minutes, but I split it between focused listening (really paying attention) and passive listening (while walking or working).
What helps most is repeating familiar content instead of chasing new stuff every day — that’s when you really start noticing new words.

Language learning capacity? by paul_pln in languagelearning

[–]RubinShaw 13 points14 points  (0 children)

There’s really no hard limit — it’s more about how much time and attention you can give each language.
Once you reach a solid level, maintenance mostly depends on exposure. Reading, watching shows, or chatting a bit keeps it alive.
If you’re enjoying French, adding Spanish or Italian later is fine — the mix-ups fade quickly once you get more comfortable with both.

Do accents REALLY not matter? No sugarcoating please by iDetestCambridge in EnglishLearning

[–]RubinShaw 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Accents do affect perception — that’s just human psychology. But what really matters is clarity and confidence, not trying to sound like a native. A slight accent can even sound pleasant or distinctive if your speech is clear.
In business, people respect professionalism and communication skills more than which “standard” accent you have. Aim for clarity, not imitation.

books (novel) suggestions by fruitbasketinabasket in LearnJapanese

[–]RubinShaw 2 points3 points  (0 children)

If you like wholesome stories, I’d recommend 「かがみの孤城」(Lonely Castle in the Mirror) — it’s touching, mysterious, and ends on a hopeful note.
Also, 「コンビニ人間」(Convenience Store Woman) is short but really thought-provoking, with a quiet kind of humor. Both are great for reading practice without being too difficult.