Is Duolingo a waste of time?

Apps like Duolingo surely help you get familiar with (very) basic vocab, but they can’t replicate the experience of struggling to find the right word mid conversation or understanding the nuances of tone and slang.

Relying only on apps like Duolingo to learn Italian - or any language -is waste of time, in my opinion. They might sound convenient, but they’re passive.Language learning isn’t just about memorizing words passively or completing lessons.

It’s about real communication, thinking in the language, and getting comfortable making mistakes out loud. Without real conversations, you miss out on pronunciation, slang, cultural nuances, and the confidence that comes with actual speaking.

If you want to get fluent in Italian, you will need a 360 learning experience. That means listening to Italian music or podcasts, watching films or YouTube videos, reading articles, and most importantly, talking with native speakers as much as possible.

Don’t rely on apps alone. Use them as one tool in your toolbox, but make immersion and active practice your priority. What’s your biggest struggle with language learning?

Dafina, BA Hons, Linguistics @ University of Ca’ Foscari - Venice, Italy | Premium Italian Language Coaching Italian tutors in London Italian tuitions near me Italian tutors near me Italian courses in London Italian classes in London