Secrets to Fast Language Learning by Polyglots

Overview

• Polyglots are individuals known for speaking multiple languages rapidly.
• Techniques from famous polyglots can be emulated to master numerous languages.

Giuseppe Caspar Mezzofanti

• Background: Italian cardinal and linguist, born in Bologna, Italy in 1774.
• Languages: Spoke at least 30 languages fluently.
• Technique: Used the Lord's Prayer to learn language structures and rhythms.

Tim Ferriss

• Developed the "12 Golden Sentences" method inspired by Mezzofanti.
• Concept: Translate 12 key sentences (e.g., "The apple is red") to understand basic structures of a target language.

Kato Lom

• Background: Hungarian interpreter, born in Pecs, Hungary in 1909.
• Languages: Spoke 16 languages, understood almost 30.
• Learning Formula:
  • Invested Time x Motivation / Inhibition = Best Results
  • Three Autos Method:
    • Autolexia: Reading for oneself.
    • Autographia: Writing for oneself.
    • Autologia: Speaking to oneself.

Kenneth Hale

• Background: American professor, champion for endangered languages.
• Languages: Spoke about 50 languages.
• Technique: Listening plus silent period.
  • Inspired by Stephen Krashen's comprehensible input hypothesis.
  • Suggests listening until ready to speak naturally.

Powell Janulis

• Background: Canadian translator, Guinness World Record for 42 languages in 1985.
• Method:
  • Intoning and Enchanting: Use rhythm to recall words.
  • Encharting: Sentence-building system leveraging commonly used words.

Steve Kaufman

• Background: Canadian polyglot, speaks about 20 languages.
• Technique: Vagabond technique
  • Exposes brain to the language naturally across various contexts.
  • Avoids rote memorization; allows grammar and vocabulary to become familiar through exposure.

Conclusion

• These strategies offer insights into effective language acquisition.
• Techniques emphasize immersion, contextual learning, and reducing fear of mistakes.

"To top it all off, a convenient conversation partner is essential for practicing these techniques."