Why use an app to learn Welsh?
Apps are perfect for beginners because they break Welsh into short, friendly steps. You can review vocab on the bus, listen to audio dialogues during a walk, and track progress without feeling overwhelmed.
Most apps use spaced repetition, so new words (like bore da, diolch, and hwyl) stick. You’ll also get instant feedback on pronunciation—important for sounds that are new to English speakers.
- Bite-sized lessons for busy days.
- Audio practice to train your ear from day one.
- Clear goals and streaks to boost motivation.
- Portable learning: online or offline, wherever you are.
Essential features for beginner success
Not all apps are equal. If you’re a beginner, choose a learn Welsh app that focuses on real communication and simple grammar. These features help A1–A2 learners move faster without confusion.
- High-quality audio: Clear native recordings for listening and shadowing.
- Slow playback: Adjust speed to hear tricky consonants like ll and rh.
- Spaced repetition: Smart reviews so new words don’t vanish.
- Useful phrases: Everyday language, not just isolated nouns.
- Grammar hints in context: Short tips that don’t interrupt flow.
- Community or tutor access: Ask quick questions when stuck.
A simple 4‑week starter plan (A1–A2)
Use this flexible plan with any solid app. Aim for 15–20 minutes daily. If possible, add 5 minutes of extra audio listening while walking or commuting. Consistency beats cramming!
- Week 1: Greetings, names, where you’re from. Learn bore da, prynhawn da, nos da, dw i’n…, and place names. Record yourself and compare to the app’s audio.
- Week 2: Numbers, days, time, basic questions. Practice counting, asking Beth yw hwnna? and Sut wyt ti? Keep reviews short and frequent.
- Week 3: Food, café phrases, likes/dislikes. Drill Hoffa i…, Dw i ddim yn hoffi…, and ordering language. Shadow 5 minutes of dialogue daily.
- Week 4: Daily routine and directions. Learn verbs like mynd, gwneud, and gofyn for simple sentences. Add one short online conversation or voice note practice.
Pronunciation and listening: make audio your friend
Welsh spelling is consistent once you learn the patterns. Use your app’s audio features every day: listen, repeat, and shadow (speak with the recording) to build muscle memory.
Focus on a few hallmark sounds first; don’t try to perfect everything at once. Record yourself, compare with the model, and adjust slowly.
- ll: Air flows at the sides of the tongue. Practice with Llandudno; keep it gentle.
- rh: A breathy r sound; start the r with a puff of air.
- ch: As in Scottish loch; throaty but not harsh.
- u and y: Vowels can differ by dialect; rely on clear audio models.
- Stress: Usually on the penultimate syllable; clap the rhythm to feel it.
Helpful online resources and classes near you
Combine your app with trustworthy online materials. Many organisations provide free content for beginners, from short videos to interactive exercises and news in simple Welsh.
If you prefer a group, look for classes near you or friendly conversation meetups. Blending app study with real voices accelerates speaking confidence.
- BBC resources: Search for bbc Welsh learning pages, audio clips, and beginner articles.
- National or local courses: The National Centre for Learning Welsh lists providers and levels.
- Community groups: Online forums and Discords where learners swap tips and corrections.
- Clubs near you: Meetup-style sessions or cultural societies for casual practice.
- Dictionaries and grammar: Use a reliable online dictionary with sound and sample sentences.
- Radio and podcasts: Short Welsh news summaries and music stations for passive audio.
FAQ
- Is Welsh hard for English speakers?
- It’s different, not impossible. Welsh spelling is consistent, and basic grammar is beginner-friendly once you learn patterns. With daily audio practice and short lessons, A1 progress can come in weeks.
- Can I learn Welsh for free?
- Yes. Many apps have free tiers, and you’ll find BBC learning pages, online dictionaries, and beginner podcasts at no cost. Combine these with a simple study plan for steady gains.
- Should I learn North or South Welsh?
- Both are valid. Choose one variety in your app to stay consistent with audio and spelling. You can understand the other variety later; differences at A1–A2 are manageable.
- How much time should I study each day?
- Aim for 15–20 minutes of focused app practice plus 5 minutes of listening. Short, daily sessions beat long, irregular ones for language memory and confidence.
- How can I practice speaking if no one is near me?
- Use the app’s speaking and recording tools, shadow dialogues, and send short voice notes to online partners. Weekly video chats or conversation groups help you use Welsh in real time.