14 January 2025

I Did Duolingo for 2000 Days. Can I Speak Spanish?

In a recent video, Evan Ediger, a YouTuber known for his language learning journey, shares his experience of using Duolingo for 2,000 days to learn Spanish. If you're curious about whether this app can truly help you become conversationally fluent, Evan's insights might just provide the answers you need.

Evan begins by confirming that, yes, he can speak Spanish after 2,000 days of dedicated practice, albeit with some caveats. He explains that while he has achieved a level of proficiency, his Spanish is not perfect. He has spent the last four to five years focusing exclusively on Duolingo for Spanish, contrasting this with his earlier experience learning German, where he utilized a variety of resources.

Throughout the video, Evan discusses his progress in the Duolingo app, noting that he is currently at a B1 level, which allows him to engage in practical conversations. He emphasizes that while he can construct sentences and communicate effectively, he still has much to learn before reaching native-level fluency.

Evan also addresses common criticisms of Duolingo, such as the notion that it only teaches basic vocabulary. He acknowledges that while the app starts with simple exercises to build confidence, the complexity of the lessons increases as users progress. He shares his current learning path, demonstrating how he has moved from basic sentences to more complex structures.

One of the highlights of the video is Evan's recent experience in Berlin, where he had a 25-minute conversation in Spanish with a massage therapist from Mexico City. This interaction served as a pivotal moment for him, showcasing his ability to communicate effectively in a real-world setting. He reflects on the joy of using a language outside of the app and the confidence it brings.

Key Takeaways

1. Consistency is Key: Evan emphasizes the importance of daily practice, even if it's just for a few minutes. He suggests that committing to 15-30 minutes of learning each day can significantly enhance language acquisition.

2. Language Learning is a Journey: Evan encourages viewers to view language learning as a gradual process rather than a race. He highlights that everyone progresses at their own pace, and it's essential to celebrate small victories along the way.

3. Real-World Practice Matters: Engaging in conversations with native speakers is crucial for building confidence and fluency. Evan's experience in Berlin illustrates the value of applying what you've learned in real-life situations.

4. Utilize Multiple Resources: While Duolingo is a great tool, Evan suggests that incorporating other resources, such as reading, listening to music, or watching shows in the target language, can further enhance learning.

5. Embrace Mistakes: Making errors is a natural part of the learning process. Evan encourages learners to embrace their mistakes as opportunities for growth.

In conclusion, Evan's journey with Duolingo demonstrates that while the app can be a valuable resource for language learning, achieving fluency requires dedication, consistency, and real-world practice. If you're considering diving into a new language, remember that every small step counts!