Why Armenian is great for beginners
Armenian looks different at first, but it’s a very learnable language for beginners. The alphabet is phonetic, so once you learn the letters, you can sound out almost any word. Common greetings and daily phrases are short, and many words pronounce just like they’re written. That makes early progress motivating.
You’ll see two main standards: Eastern Armenian (used in Armenia) and Western Armenian (common in the diaspora). The alphabet is the same, and beginner topics overlap a lot. Pick one variety and stay consistent. With a simple routine and the right free online materials, you can reach A1–A2 faster than you think.
- Clear pronunciation rules once you know the alphabet
- Beginner phrases you can use on day one
- Plenty of free online content for listening and reading
Start with the Armenian alphabet
The Armenian alphabet has 39 letters, and each letter maps closely to a sound. Learn the shapes, the names, and a sample word for each letter. Focus on reading first; writing can come after. Even 15 focused minutes a day can get you reading simple words within a week.
Print a free PDF alphabet chart and keep it at your desk. Practice micro-drills: read syllables, then short words, then street signs or menus online. Pair the letters with audio so you link symbols to sounds. This foundation pays off whenever you meet new vocabulary.
- Learn 6–8 letters per day with audio and quick quizzes
- Use a printable PDF chart and mark tricky letters
- Read out loud to build muscle memory and rhythm
- Write your name and common words by day three
Free online resources and apps
Duolingo doesn’t offer a full Armenian course yet, but there are great alternatives. Look for learner-friendly YouTube channels with clear, slow speech and subtitles. Many teachers share free PDF worksheets, verb tables, and phrase lists. Combine them with a spaced-repetition app to review words efficiently.
Several language apps and sites include Armenian courses or decks. Try a mix: one app for vocab, one site for grammar notes, and YouTube for listening. Keep everything simple and repeatable so you build a habit instead of chasing too many tools.
- YouTube: beginner playlists with subtitles for everyday topics
- Community decks in SRS apps (search “Armenian A1”)
- Free PDF alphabet charts and phrase sheets from blogs
- Apps like Ling, Mondly, Drops, Clozemaster, or uTalk
- Online dictionaries with audio to check pronunciation
Build daily habits that stick
Set a tiny daily target: 10–15 minutes is enough for consistent progress. Rotate focus: day 1 alphabet and sounds, day 2 core phrases, day 3 listening, day 4 review. Keep one notebook (or a single PDF note) to track words, questions, and wins. Simplicity beats intensity.
Use the 3–2–1 routine: three minutes of quick review in an app, two minutes reading a short sentence out loud, one minute shadowing a slow audio clip. That’s six minutes—add another few for writing or flashcards, and you’re done.
- Study at the same time each day (habit cue)
- Shadow short lines for pronunciation and rhythm
- Save sentences, not just words, in your deck
- Review yesterday’s material before adding new items
- Do one tiny speaking task daily (voice note or mirror practice)
Essential phrases for a beginner
Learn phrases you’ll actually say. Read them, listen, then speak them three times out loud. If you can, print a pocket PDF with your top 20 lines and keep it handy.
- Hello: Barev (Բարև)
- Good morning: Bari luys (Բարի լույս)
- How are you?: Inchpes es? (Ինչպե՞ս ես)
- Yes/No: Ayo / Voch (Այո / Ոչ)
- Please/You’re welcome: Khndrem (Խնդրում եմ)
- Thank you: Shnorhakalutyun (Շնորհակալություն)
- I don’t understand: Yes chem haskanum (Ես չեմ հասկանում)
- My name is…: Im anun@ … e (Իմ անունը … է)
FAQ
- Is Armenian hard for English speakers?
- It looks challenging, but the phonetic alphabet makes pronunciation and reading straightforward. With simple, consistent practice, most beginners can reach A1 basics within a few months.
- Should I learn Eastern or Western Armenian first?
- Pick the variety you’ll use most (travel, family, community). The alphabet is the same. For Armenia and most online media, choose Eastern. For many diaspora communities, Western is common.
- Does Duolingo have Armenian?
- Duolingo doesn’t offer a full Armenian course at this time. Use alternatives like Ling, Mondly, Drops, Clozemaster, or uTalk, plus YouTube and free PDF worksheets for a complete beginner path.
- How long to reach A2 level?
- With 15–30 minutes daily using an app, short readings, and speaking out loud, many learners reach A2 in 4–6 months. Focus on the alphabet early, memorize high-frequency phrases, and review often.
- Where can I find free PDF materials?
- Search for “Armenian alphabet PDF,” “Armenian A1 phrases PDF,” and “Eastern Armenian grammar PDF.” Many teachers and universities share free online handouts, charts, and beginner readers.