Easiest Slavic Languages

Easiest Slavic Languages: A Beginner's Guide to Slavic Linguistic Ease

Introduction:

Embarking on a journey to learn a new language can feel daunting, especially when faced with the vast and varied Slavic language family. From the melodic sounds of Polish to the rich vocabulary of Russian, the options seem endless. But fear not! This comprehensive guide delves into the question of which Slavic languages are considered the easiest to learn, offering insights based on linguistic structure, grammatical complexity, and resource availability. We'll explore the factors that make certain Slavic languages more accessible to beginners and provide practical tips to jumpstart your learning journey. Get ready to discover the easiest Slavic languages and unlock a world of Slavic culture and communication!


1. Understanding Slavic Language Families:

Before diving into the "easiest" languages, it's crucial to understand the broader Slavic landscape. The Slavic languages are broadly categorized into three groups: East Slavic (including Russian, Ukrainian, and Belarusian), West Slavic (including Polish, Czech, and Slovak), and South Slavic (including Serbian, Croatian, Bosnian, Slovenian, Bulgarian, and Macedonian). These groups share a common ancestor but have diverged significantly over centuries, resulting in variations in pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary.

2. Factors Determining Language Learning Difficulty:

Several key factors influence how "easy" a language is to learn:

Pronunciation: Languages with simpler phonetic systems (fewer sounds and consistent spelling-sound relationships) are generally easier to master.
Grammar: Grammatical complexity, including verb conjugation, noun declension, and sentence structure, significantly impacts learning difficulty. Languages with fewer grammatical cases and simpler verb conjugations are often considered easier.
Vocabulary: The overlap in vocabulary between the learner's native language and the target language can significantly impact learning speed.
Resource Availability: Abundant learning materials, such as textbooks, online courses, and language exchange partners, can dramatically improve the learning experience.

3. The Contenders for "Easiest" Slavic Languages:

While "easiest" is subjective and depends on the learner's native language and learning style, several Slavic languages consistently emerge as relatively more accessible for beginners:

Bulgarian: Often cited as one of the easiest Slavic languages, Bulgarian boasts a relatively simple grammar compared to other Slavic tongues. Its pronunciation is also considered relatively straightforward, and the Cyrillic alphabet, while initially unfamiliar, is generally easy to learn. The lack of grammatical gender also simplifies the learning curve.

Macedonian: Similar to Bulgarian, Macedonian presents a simpler grammatical structure and relatively straightforward pronunciation. Its Cyrillic script is also relatively easy to master, and the availability of learning resources is steadily improving.

Slovak: While still more challenging than Bulgarian or Macedonian, Slovak benefits from a relatively simpler grammar than Polish or Czech. Its Latin alphabet is a plus for English speakers, and the increasing availability of online resources is making it more accessible.

4. Why Other Slavic Languages Might Be More Difficult:

Languages like Russian, Polish, and Czech, while incredibly rich and rewarding to learn, present steeper learning curves due to their:

Complex grammatical systems: These languages utilize extensive noun declensions (cases) and verb conjugations, requiring significant memorization.
Numerous irregularities: Many verbs and nouns exhibit irregular forms, adding to the learning burden.
Challenging pronunciation: Some sounds in these languages can be difficult for native English speakers to master.

5. Tips for Learning the Easiest Slavic Languages:

Start with the basics: Focus on mastering pronunciation, basic grammar, and common vocabulary before tackling more complex aspects.
Immerse yourself: Surround yourself with the language through music, movies, and books.
Find a language partner: Practicing with a native speaker is invaluable for improving fluency and pronunciation.
Utilize online resources: Numerous websites and apps offer valuable learning resources, including interactive exercises and vocabulary builders.
Set realistic goals: Learning a language takes time and effort. Celebrate your progress and don't get discouraged by setbacks.


6. A Sample Learning Plan (Bulgarian):

This plan outlines a potential learning pathway for Bulgarian, focusing on building a solid foundation:

Introduction: Familiarization with the Cyrillic alphabet, basic greetings, and pronunciation.
Chapter 1: Basic Grammar: Noun genders (absence of grammatical gender is a plus!), verb conjugation (present tense), basic sentence structure.
Chapter 2: Essential Vocabulary: Common nouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs related to everyday life.
Chapter 3: Intermediate Grammar: Past and future verb tenses, more complex sentence structures, prepositions.
Chapter 4: Advanced Vocabulary: Expanding vocabulary to include more nuanced expressions and specialized terms.
Conclusion: Reviewing key grammatical concepts and vocabulary, and setting goals for continued learning.


7. Detailed Explanation of the Sample Learning Plan:

The above plan is designed to be flexible and adaptable to individual learning styles. The introduction would focus on getting comfortable with the Cyrillic script and basic sounds, using resources like online flashcards and pronunciation guides. Chapter 1 establishes the foundations of Bulgarian grammar. Chapters 2 and 4 concentrate on vocabulary acquisition through flashcards, spaced repetition systems, and immersion activities. Chapters 3 builds on the grammatical foundation, introducing more complex tenses and sentence structures. The conclusion reinforces learned material and sets the stage for continuous growth.


FAQs:

1. Is Bulgarian harder than Russian? Generally, Bulgarian is considered easier than Russian due to its simpler grammar and pronunciation.

2. What is the easiest Slavic language for English speakers? Bulgarian and Macedonian are often cited as the easiest for English speakers due to their relatively simple grammar and straightforward pronunciation.

3. Are there many resources available for learning the easiest Slavic languages? The availability of resources is increasing, particularly for Bulgarian and Macedonian, but may still be less extensive than for languages like Russian or Polish.

4. How long does it take to learn an easy Slavic language? The time required varies greatly depending on the individual's learning style, dedication, and prior language learning experience.

5. What's the best way to practice speaking a Slavic language? Language exchange partners, online tutors, and immersion experiences are highly beneficial for developing speaking skills.

6. Do all Slavic languages use the Cyrillic alphabet? No, West Slavic languages like Polish, Czech, and Slovak use the Latin alphabet, while many South and East Slavic languages use Cyrillic.

7. What are the cultural benefits of learning a Slavic language? Accessing a rich cultural heritage, literature, and film, and connecting with Slavic communities worldwide.

8. Are there any jobs that require knowledge of Slavic languages? Yes, opportunities exist in translation, interpretation, international business, and diplomacy.

9. Can learning one Slavic language help in learning others? Yes, having knowledge of one Slavic language can make learning others easier due to shared linguistic roots and vocabulary similarities.


Related Articles:

1. Mastering the Cyrillic Alphabet: A step-by-step guide to conquering the Cyrillic script.
2. Top 10 Bulgarian Phrases for Travelers: Essential phrases for navigating Bulgaria.
3. The Sounds of Macedonian: A Pronunciation Guide: Understanding the phonetic system of Macedonian.
4. Basic Slovak Grammar: A Beginner's Introduction: A simple introduction to Slovak grammar.
5. Comparing Slavic Verb Conjugations: An analysis of verb conjugation across various Slavic languages.
6. Cultural Immersion in Bulgaria: Exploring Bulgarian culture through its food, music, and traditions.
7. Learning Resources for Macedonian: A curated list of websites, apps, and textbooks for learning Macedonian.
8. The History of the Slavic Languages: Exploring the historical development of the Slavic language family.
9. Slavic Language Families: A Comparative Overview: A comprehensive comparison of the East, West, and South Slavic language branches.


  easiest slavic languages: The Way of the Linguist Steve Kaufmann, 2005-11 The Way of The Linguist, A language learning odyssey. It is now a cliché that the world is a smaller place. We think nothing of jumping on a plane to travel to another country or continent. The most exotic locations are now destinations for mass tourism. Small business people are dealing across frontiers and language barriers like never before. The Internet brings different languages and cultures to our finger-tips. English, the hybrid language of an island at the western extremity of Europe seems to have an unrivalled position as an international medium of communication. But historically periods of cultural and economic domination have never lasted forever. Do we not lose something by relying on the wide spread use of English rather than discovering other languages and cultures? As citizens of this shrunken world, would we not be better off if we were able to speak a few languages other than our own? The answer is obviously yes. Certainly Steve Kaufmann thinks so, and in his busy life as a diplomat and businessman he managed to learn to speak nine languages fluently and observe first hand some of the dominant cultures of Europe and Asia. Why do not more people do the same? In his book The Way of The Linguist, A language learning odyssey, Steve offers some answers. Steve feels anyone can learn a language if they want to. He points out some of the obstacles that hold people back. Drawing on his adventures in Europe and Asia, as a student and businessman, he describes the rewards that come from knowing languages. He relates his evolution as a language learner, abroad and back in his native Canada and explains the kind of attitude that will enable others to achieve second language fluency. Many people have taken on the challenge of language learning but have been frustrated by their lack of success. This book offers detailed advice on the kind of study practices that will achieve language breakthroughs. Steve has developed a language learning system available online at: www.thelinguist.com.
  easiest slavic languages: English Grammar for Students of Russian Edwina J. Cruise, 1993 Thousands of students have found these books the ideal way to master the grammar of their chosen language. They offer a step-by-step explanation of a concept as it applies in English, a presentation of the same concept as it applies in the target language, the similarities and differences between the two languages, stressing common pitfalls for English speakers and including review exercises with an answer key.
  easiest slavic languages: Colloquial Slovak James Naughton, 2012-03-12 Colloquial Slovak: The Complete Course for Beginners has been carefully developed by an experienced teacher to provide a step-by-step course to Slovak as it is written and spoken today. Combining a clear, practical and accessible style with a methodical and thorough treatment of the language, it equips learners with the essential skills needed to communicate confidently and effectively in Slovak in a broad range of situations. No prior knowledge of the language is required. Colloquial Slovak is exceptional; each unit presents a wealth of grammatical points that are reinforced with a wide range of exercises for regular practice. A full answer key, a grammar summary, bilingual glossaries and English translations of dialogues can be found at the back as well as useful vocabulary lists throughout. Key features include: A clear, user-friendly format designed to help learners progressively build up their speaking, listening, reading and writing skills Jargon-free, succinct and clearly structured explanations of grammar An extensive range of focused and dynamic supportive exercises Realistic and entertaining dialogues covering a broad variety of narrative situations Helpful cultural points explaining the customs and features of life in Slovakia An overview of the sounds of Slovak Balanced, comprehensive and rewarding, Colloquial Slovak is an indispensable resource both for independent learners and students taking courses in Slovak. Audio material to accompany the course is available to download free in MP3 format from www.routledge.com/cw/colloquials. Recorded by native speakers, the audio material features the dialogues and texts from the book and will help develop your listening and pronunciation skills.
  easiest slavic languages: Using Russian Derek Offord, 2005-07-14 Using Russian is a guide to Russian usage for those who have already acquired the basics of the language and wish to extend their knowledge. Unlike conventional grammars, it gives special attention to those areas of vocabulary and grammar which cause most difficulty to English speakers, and focuses on questions of style and register which are all too often ignored. Clear, readable and easy to consult, it will prove invaluable to students seeking to improve their fluency and confidence in Russian. This second edition has been substantially revised and expanded to incorporate fresh material and up-to-date information. Many of the original chapters have been rewritten and one brand new chapter has been added, providing a clear picture of Russian usage in the 21st century.
  easiest slavic languages: Russian Phrases For Dummies Andrew D. Kaufman, Serafima Gettys, 2011-06-01 Traveling in a foreign country such as Russia suddenly becomes a lot more exciting when you can engage in elegant small talk with the locals. Russian Phrases For Dummies is your handy guide to everyday words and phrases you can start using immediately to make your visit more rewarding and a whole lot easier. This user-friendly phrasebook will jump-start your comprehension and have you speaking basic Russian in no time. Its quick-and-easy approach gives you language fundamentals up front, the Words to Know section helps you find the right word fast, and the easy-to-use pronunciation key helps other people understand what you're trying to say. You'll learn how to: Get directions, shop, and eat out Talk numbers, dates, and time Chat about family and work Discuss sports and the weather Deal with problems and emergencies Pronounce familiar English words and phrases in Russian and English Beware of words that sound to English but don't mean the same thing Read signs that use the Russian alphabet Follow the conventions of Russian pronunciation Use basic Russian grammar correctly Keep ten commonly used Russian phrases on the tip of your tongue Use basic telephone vocabulary and send letters, emails, and faxes Don't have time to study the language before you get to Russia? No worries. Just flip through Russian Phrases For Dummies, find the section that fits your needs, and start talking!
  easiest slavic languages: The Grammar of Romanian Gabriela Panã Dindelegan, Martin Maiden, 2013-04-25 This book is the first comprehensive grammar in English of present-day standard Romanian. It is an indispensable resource for Romance linguists, from advanced undergraduate level and above.
  easiest slavic languages: Interslavic zonal constructed language Vojtěch Merunka, 2018-02-01 Interslavic zonal constructed language is an auxiliary language, which looks very similar to real spoken Slavic languages in Central and Eastern Europe and continues the tradition of the Old Church Slavonic language. Interslavic shares grammar and common vocabulary with modern spoken Slavic languages in order to build a universal language tool that Slavic people can understand without any or with very minimal prior learning. It is an easily-learned language for those who want to use this language actively. Interslavic enables passive (e.g. receptive) understanding of the real Slavic languages. Non-Slavic people can use Interslavic as the door to the big Slavic world. Zonal constructed languages are constructed languages made to facilitate communication between speakers of a certain group of closely related languages. They belong to the international auxiliary languages, but unlike languages like Esperanto and Volapük they are not intended to serve for the whole world, but merely for a limited linguistic or geographic area where they take advantage of the fact that the people of this zone understand these languages without having to learn them in a difficult way. Zonal languages include the ancient Sanskirt, Old Church Slavonic, and Lingua Franca. Zonal design can be partially found also in modern languages such as contemporary Hebrew, Indonesian, and Swahili.
  easiest slavic languages: How to Learn a Foreign Language Paul Pimsleur, 2013-10 In this entertaining and groundbreaking book, Dr. Paul Pimsleur, creator of the renowned Pimsleur Method, the world leader in audio-based language learning, shows how anyone can learn to speak a foreign language. If learning a language in high school left you bruised, with a sense that there was no way you can learn another language, How to Learn a Foreign Language will restore your sense of hope. In simple, straightforward terms, Dr. Pimsleur will help you learn grammar (seamlessly), vocabulary, and how to practice pronunciation (and come out sounding like a native). The key is the simplicity and directness of Pimsleur’s approach to a daunting subject, breaking it down piece by piece, demystifying the process along the way. Dr. Pimsleur draws on his own language learning trials and tribulations offering practical advice for overcoming the obstacles so many of us face. Originally published in 1980, How to Learn a Foreign Language is now available on the 50th anniversary of Dr. Pimsleur’s publication of the first of his first audio courses that embodied the concepts and methods found here. It's a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of the mind of this amazing pioneer of language learning.
  easiest slavic languages: Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian, a Grammar Ronelle Alexander, 2006-08-15 Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian, a Grammar analyzes and clarifies the complex, dynamic language situation in the former Yugoslavia. Addressing squarely the issues connected with the splintering of Serbo-Croatian into component languages, this volume provides teachers and learners with practical solutions and highlights the differences among the languages as well as the communicative core that they all share. The first book to cover all three components of the post-Yugoslav linguistic environment, this reference manual features: · Thorough presentation of the grammar common to Bosnian, Croatian, and Serbian, with explication of all the major differences · Examples from a broad range of spoken language and literature · New approaches to accent and clitic ordering, two of the most difficult points in BCS grammar · Order of grammar presentation in chapters 1–16 keyed to corresponding lessons in Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian, a Textbook · Sociolinguistic commentary explicating the cultural and political context within which Bosnian, Croatian, and Serbian function and have been defined · Separate indexes of the grammar and sociolinguistic commentary, and of all words discussed in both
  easiest slavic languages: Russian For Dummies Andrew D. Kaufman, Serafima Gettys, Nina Wieda, 2011-05-23 Russian is spoken by nearly 450 million people, and demand for Russian-speakers is growing. This introductory course includes an audio CD with practice dialogues-just the ticket for readers who need basic Russian for business, school, or travel. Serafima Gettys, PhD (Newark, CA), is Coordinator of the Foreign Language Program at Lewis University. Andrew Kaufman, PhD (Charlottesville, VA), is a Visiting Assistant Professor at the University of Virginia. Note: CD-ROM/DVD and other supplementary materials are not included as part of eBook file.
  easiest slavic languages: 100 Easy Ukrainian Texts Yuliia Pozniak, 2017-01-28 100 texts with contemporary vocabulary, 60 minutes of audio online. Helps not just to learn the words, but to use them. - This book is for beginners (A1-A2 levels).- The excellent quality audios for all the texts are recorded in the professional recording studio and read by a native speaker are available online. The link is inside the book.- The most useful words in the different contexts.- Suitable for both self-study and class use as an additional material.- All the words in the book have stress marks!Inside you'll find the following topics:1) My Family and I2) My Things3) Interests and Activities4) My House5) My City6) Food7) Clothing and Weather8) Daily Affairs9) Appearance and Character10) Transport and TravelThis book has been carefully created by a Ukrainian language teacher Yuliia Pozniak.
  easiest slavic languages: Fluent in 3 Months Benny Lewis, 2014-03-11 Benny Lewis, who speaks over ten languages—all self-taught—runs the largest language-learning blog in the world, Fluent In 3 Months. Lewis is a full-time language hacker, someone who devotes all of his time to finding better, faster, and more efficient ways to learn languages. Fluent in 3 Months: How Anyone at Any Age Can Learn to Speak Any Language from Anywhere in the World is a new blueprint for fast language learning. Lewis argues that you don't need a great memory or the language gene to learn a language quickly, and debunks a number of long-held beliefs, such as adults not being as good of language learners as children.
  easiest slavic languages: Linguistics For Dummies Rose-Marie Dechaine, Strang Burton, Eric Vatikiotis-Bateson, 2012-02-08 The fascinating, fun, and friendly way to understand the science behind human language Linguistics is the scientific study of human language. Linguistics students study how languages are constructed, how they function, how they affect society, and how humans learn language. From understanding other languages to teaching computers to communicate, linguistics plays a vital role in society. Linguistics For Dummies tracks to a typical college-level introductory linguistics course and arms you with the confidence, knowledge, and know-how to score your highest. Understand the science behind human language Grasp how language is constructed Score your highest in college-level linguistics If you're enrolled in an introductory linguistics course or simply have a love of human language, Linguistics For Dummies is your one-stop resource for unlocking the science of the spoken word.
  easiest slavic languages: Old Church Slavonic Grammar Horace G. Lunt, 2010-12-14 No detailed description available for Old Church Slavonic Grammar.
  easiest slavic languages: The Slavonic Languages Professor Greville Corbett, Professor Bernard Comrie, 2003-09 This book provides a chapter-length description of each of the modern Slavonic languages and the attested extinct Slavonic languages. Individual chapters discuss the various alphabets that have been used to write Slavonic languages, in particular the Roman, Cyrillic and Glagolitic alphabets; the relationship of the Slavonic languages to other Indo-European languages; their relationship to one another through their common ancestor, Proto-Slavonic; and the extent to what various Slavonic languages have survived in emigration. Each chapter on an individual language is written according to the same general scheme and incorporates the following elements: an introductory section describing the language's social context and, appropriate, the development of the standard language; a discussion of the phonology of the language, including a phonemic inventory and morphophonemic alterations from both synchronic and diachronic perspectives; a detailed presentation of the synchronic morphology of the language, with notes on the major historical developments; an extensive discussion of the syntactic properties of the language; a discussion of vocabulary, including the relation between inherited Slavonic and borrowed vocabulary, with lists of basic lexical items in selected semantic fields colour terms, names of parts of the body and kinship terms; an outline of the main dialects, with an accompanying map; and a bibliography with sources in English and other languages. The book is made particularly accessible by the inclusion of (1) a parallel transliteration of all examples cited from Slavonic languages that use the Cyrillic alphabet and (2) English translations of all Slavonic language examples.
  easiest slavic languages: A Historical Phonology of the Ukrainian Language I͡Uriĭ Sherekh, 1979
  easiest slavic languages: Fluent Forever Gabriel Wyner, 2014-08-05 NATIONAL BESTSELLER • For anyone who wants to learn a foreign language, this is the method that will finally make the words stick. “A brilliant and thoroughly modern guide to learning new languages.”—Gary Marcus, cognitive psychologist and author of the New York Times bestseller Guitar Zero At thirty years old, Gabriel Wyner speaks six languages fluently. He didn’t learn them in school—who does? Rather, he learned them in the past few years, working on his own and practicing on the subway, using simple techniques and free online resources—and here he wants to show others what he’s discovered. Starting with pronunciation, you’ll learn how to rewire your ears and turn foreign sounds into familiar sounds. You’ll retrain your tongue to produce those sounds accurately, using tricks from opera singers and actors. Next, you’ll begin to tackle words, and connect sounds and spellings to imagery rather than translations, which will enable you to think in a foreign language. And with the help of sophisticated spaced-repetition techniques, you’ll be able to memorize hundreds of words a month in minutes every day. This is brain hacking at its most exciting, taking what we know about neuroscience and linguistics and using it to create the most efficient and enjoyable way to learn a foreign language in the spare minutes of your day.
  easiest slavic languages: Learn Russian Angelos Georgakis, 2017-07-08 My friend Robert texted me one day in London: Angelos, I'm flying to Moscow tomorrow. Can we catch up tonight at the pub to teach me a little bit of Russian? Initially, I thought...WTF? Is he serious? What has he been doing all these days? I know that it takes at least a couple of weeks to get a Russian visa sorted in the Russian Visa Centre in London. So, he definitely didn't decide to fly to Moscow today! But then I thought...that's a challenge! That's a James Bond mission impossible...maybe possible! Can I teach him the very very basic? What is the very basic Russian? How do I teach him the very basic? If I had only a couple of hours, a pen and a few blank sheets, what would I write down for him? Sometimes, tight time restrictions can awake motivation: Yes, we can do it! In this book you'll find the things I wrote down for Robert that evening in the pub. The very basic. In the simplest words ever. I have to say that I enjoyed the challenge but I wrote this book for the next Robert who will ask me to catch up on the day before he flies to Moscow. If you see yourself in Robert, read this book. Don't f***** call me. Kindness and smiles, Angelos Explore Russian
  easiest slavic languages: Babel No More Michael Erard, 2012-01-10 A “fascinating” (The Economist) dive into the world of linguistics that is “part travelogue, part science lesson, part intellectual investigation…an entertaining, informative survey of some of the most fascinating polyglots of our time” (The New York Times Book Review). In Babel No More, Michael Erard, “a monolingual with benefits,” sets out on a quest to meet language superlearners and make sense of their mental powers. On the way he uncovers the secrets of historical figures like the nineteenth-century Italian cardinal Joseph Mezzofanti, who was said to speak seventy-two languages, as well as those of living language-superlearners such as Alexander Arguelles, a modern-day polyglot who knows dozens of languages and shows Erard the tricks of the trade to give him a dark glimpse into the life of obsessive language acquisition. With his ambitious examination of what language is, where it lives in the brain, and the cultural implications of polyglots’ pursuits, Erard explores the upper limits of our ability to learn and use languages and illuminates the intellectual potential in everyone. How do some people escape the curse of Babel—and what might the gods have demanded of them in return?
  easiest slavic languages: City of Thieves David Benioff, 2008 From the critically acclaimed author of The 25th Hour comes a captivating novel about war, courage, survival and a remarkable friendship. Stumped by a magazine assignment to write about his own uneventful life, a man visits his retired grandparents in Florida to document their experience during the infamous siege of Leningrad. Reluctantly, his grandfather commences a story that will take almost a week to tell: an odyssey of two young men determined to survive.
  easiest slavic languages: The Romance Languages Rebecca Posner, 1996-09-05 What is a Romance language? How is one Romance language related to others? How did they all evolve? And what can they tell us about language in general? In this comprehensive survey Rebecca Posner, a distinguished Romance specialist, examines this group of languages from a wide variety of perspectives. Her analysis combines philological expertise with insights drawn from modern theoretical linguistics, both synchronic and diachronic. She relates linguistic features to historical and sociological factors, and teases out those elements which can be attributed to divergence from a common source and those which indicate convergence towards a common aim. Her discussion is extensively illustrated with new and original data, and an up-to-date and comprehensive bibliography is included. This volume will be an invaluable and authoritative guide for students and specialists alike.
  easiest slavic languages: The Power Of Babel John McWhorter, 2011-04-30 There can be few subjects of such widespread interest and fascination to anyone who reads as the strange ways of languages. In this wonderfully entertaining and fascinating book, John McWhorter introduces us to 'the natural history of language': from Russonorsk, a creole of Russian and Norwegian once spoken by trading fur trappers to an Australian Aboriginal language which only has three verbs. Witty, brilliant and authoritative, this book is a must for anyone who is interested in language, as sheerly enjoyable as non-fiction gets.
  easiest slavic languages: Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian, a Textbook Ronelle Alexander, Ellen Elias-Bursac, 2010-03-01 Three official languages have emerged in the Balkan region that was formerly Yugoslavia: Croatian in Croatia, Serbian in Serbia, and both of these languages plus Bosnian in Bosnia-Herzegovina. Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian, a Textbook introduces the student to all three. Dialogues and exercises are presented in each language, shown side by side for easy comparison; in addition, Serbian is rendered in both its Latin and its Cyrillic spellings. Teachers may choose a single language to use in the classroom, or they may familiarize students with all three. This popular textbook is now revised and updated with current maps, discussion of a Montenegrin language, advice for self-study learners, an expanded glossary, and an appendix of verb types. It also features: • All dialogues, exercises, and homework assignments available in Bosnian, Croatian, and Serbian • Classroom exercises designed for both small-group and full-class work, allowing for maximum oral participation • Reading selections written by Bosnian, Croatian, and Serbian authors especially for this book • Vocabulary lists for each individual section and full glossaries at the end of the book • A short animated film, on an accompanying DVD, for use with chapter 15 • Brief grammar explanations after each dialogue, with a cross-reference to more detailed grammar chapters in the companion book, Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian, a Grammar.
  easiest slavic languages: The New Penguin Russian Course Nicholas J. Brown, 1996-12 This updated version of the Penguin Russian Course introduces the learner, through translation extracts, to the culture and life of the modern (post Glasnost) Soviet Union that was, as well as to the Russian language.
  easiest slavic languages: Around the World in 60 Seconds Nuseir Yassin, Bruce Kluger, 2019-11-05 Based on the Nas Daily video series with over 13 million dedicated followers comes the surprising, moving 1,000-day journey of a lifetime in book form In 2016, Nuseir Yassin quit his job to travel for 1,000 consecutive days. But instead of the usual tourist traps, Nas set out to meet real people, see the places they call home, and discover what unites all of us living on this beautiful planet—from villages in Africa and slums in India, to the high-rises of Singapore and the deserts of Australia. While he journeyed from country to country, Nas uploaded a single 60-second video per day for his Nas Daily Facebook following to highlight the amazing, terrifying, inspiring and downright surprising sh*t happening all over the world. Thirteen million followers later, Nas Daily has become the most immersive travel experience ever captured, and finally shows us what we’ve all been looking for: each other. AROUND THE WORLD IN 60 SECONDS is Nas’ unpredictable 1,000-day world tour in book form. At times a striking portrait of the most uncharted places in the world, at others a touching exploration of the human heart, this collection of life-affirming stories and breathtaking photographs changes how we think about humanity and community and invites us all on a journey to see the world, and each other, anew.
  easiest slavic languages: Fast Easy Way to Learn a Language Bill Handley, 2012-02-02 Fast, Easy Way to Learn a Language is essential reading for anyone studying a language at school, for business, travel or just for pleasure. Well-known inspirational teacher Bill Handley speaks 15 languages at various degrees of fluency. He is passionate about learning languages and believes language learning should be an adventure. In this book he explains: how to have fun building your vocabulary in record time the easy way to get to grips with grammar why you should use more than one textbook how to use your 'lost time' to learn faster what to do when you feel like giving up how to write your own 'survival skills' course. Fast Easy Way to Learn a Language will have you speaking your new language in no time. The book explores all the important topics: active and passive learning, mastering a different alphabet, using recorded material, planning your own immersion program, making effective use of the internet and much more. It includes special advice for school and university students. This is the fun way to learn a language.
  easiest slavic languages: First Year Polish Oscar E. Swan, 1983
  easiest slavic languages: The Navajo Verb Leonard M. Faltz, 1998 For the first time, students and scholars interested in the Navajo language have a book that presents the verb system in a step-by-step and thorough fashion. By providing easy-to-follow descriptions with abundant examples, this book unravels the complexity of Navajo and reveals its expressiveness.
  easiest slavic languages: Beginner's Croatian Aida Vidan, Robert Niebuhr, 2009 The Beginner's Series offers basic language instruction, with grammar, vocabulary, and common phrases presented in clear, concise lessons. Review questions and exercises accompany each lesson. Historical and cultural information provides insight into customs and everyday situations. Books in this series are ideal for students, travelers, and businesspeople. This book together with the 2 CDs is designed for both classroom use and self-study. Each of the 15 lessons includes a dialogue about an everyday topic, vocabulary lists, explanations of grammar, and exercises. Audio CDs accompany the lessons, providing correct pronunciation of the dialogues and vocabulary, with pauses for repetition by the student. Includes: An introduction to Croatia; Fifteen practical lessons with dialogues, vocabulary, and expressions; Exercises with answer keys; Croatian-English and English-Croatian glossaries; Two audio CDs of dialogues and vocabulary spoken by native Croatian speakers.
  easiest slavic languages: Russian Cases Artemiy Belyaev, 2017-12-07 Russian Cases Made Simple is a practical guide designed to help Russian language learners to master one of the most complicated subjects of Russian language - grammatical cases. Written by a native speaker for those who want to learn Russian, this book contains explanations of each grammatical case and all ways of use. The teaching material is practically oriented - all instructions and explanations are followed by many examples. This book can be helpful to any learner of Russian language, for a beginner and an advanced level, for a student, amateur, a polyglot. Grammatical cases are usually the most difficult part of Russian language learning, and this book was written to help you to master them. Do you want to understand Russian cases? was it your biggest struggle in learning Russian? Do you want to improve your vocabulary? Then this is the book you need to read. For using this book you should know the basic grammar of Russian language. What's inside this book? Instructions on declensions of nouns, pronouns, adjectives, participles and numerals by cases; Descriptions of each case; A lot of examples; Exercises; Additional Russian cases which you probably didn't hear about.
  easiest slavic languages: Quarks, Elephants & Pierogi Mikołaj Gliński, Matthew Davies, Adam Żuławski, 2018 Can you distil the essence of a country into just 100 words? We think so. 'Quarks, Elephants & Pierogi: Poland in 100 Word' will make you fall in love with a country with one of the most unusual histories out there. It'll also show you how languages intersect and whole cultures arise, and make you realise just how interwoven our world is. Along the way, you'll find out why quarks are made from curd cheese, learn what elephants have to do with a Central European country, and discover how pierogi saved an entire town. Plus, you'll get to enjoy 100 illustrations by Polish graphic designer Magda Burdzyńska--Back cover.
  easiest slavic languages: The Inheritance of Rome Chris Wickham, 2009-01-29 The idea that with the decline of the Roman Empire Europe entered into some immense ‘dark age’ has long been viewed as inadequate by many historians. How could a world still so profoundly shaped by Rome and which encompassed such remarkable societies as the Byzantine, Carolingian and Ottonian empires, be anything other than central to the development of European history? How could a world of so many peoples, whether expanding, moving or stable, of Goths, Franks, Vandals, Byzantines, Arabs, Anglo-Saxons, Vikings, whose genetic and linguistic inheritors we all are, not lie at the heart of how we understand ourselves? The Inheritance of Rome is a work of remarkable scope and ambition. Drawing on a wealth of new material, it is a book which will transform its many readers’ ideas about the crucible in which Europe would in the end be created. From the collapse of the Roman imperial system to the establishment of the new European dynastic states, perhaps this book’s most striking achievement is to make sense of an immensely long period of time, experienced by many generations of Europeans, and which, while it certainly included catastrophic invasions and turbulence, also contained long periods of continuity and achievement. From Ireland to Constantinople, from the Baltic to the Mediterranean, this is a genuinely Europe-wide history of a new kind, with something surprising or arresting on every page.
  easiest slavic languages: New Czech step by step Lída Holá, 2008
  easiest slavic languages: Chekhov Anton Pavlovich Chekhov, 2005 Curt Columbus endows these timeless dramas Seagull, Uncle Vanya, Three Sisters and Cherry Orchard with dialogue that is faithful to the russian original but dazzlingly attuned to contemporary audiences.
  easiest slavic languages: The Macedonian Question Victor Roudometof, 2000 In the aftermath of the Kosovo Crisis, it is said that Macedonia will be next. This volume provides an in-depth, interdisciplinary analysis of the Macedonian Question. The essays included illustrate the intimate connections between culture and ethnic politics in Macedonia
  easiest slavic languages: Toki Pona Dictionary Sonja Lang, 2021-07-18 tenpo ku li lon a! Explore the world's most simple and fun language! How can a language with only 137 essential words express the totality of human experience? Toki Pona Dictionary is a comprehensive two-way dictionary with a total of over 11,000 entries, garnished with 43 fun illustrations by Vacon Sartirani. These translations will equip you with helpful examples and commonly used options to inspire and guide your self-expression. kijetesantakalu tonsi li lanpan ala lanpan e soko? This work documents Toki Pona as a living language and includes many new words created by the growing community. Explore the world's most simple and fun language!
  easiest slavic languages: Teach Yourself Serbo-Croat Vera Javarek, Miroslava Sudjic, 1992-12
  easiest slavic languages: King Matt the First Janusz Korczak, 2005 This moving fable follows the adventures of Matt who becomes king when just a child and decides to reform his country according to his own priorities. Ignoring his grown-up ministers, he decrees that children should be given chocolate every day and builds the best zoo in the world. He fights in battles, braves the jungle, and crosses the desert, but perhaps the most life-altering thing of all is that the lonely boy king finds true friends. This timeless book shows us not only what children's literature can be, but what children can be.
  easiest slavic languages: The Loom of Language Frederick Bodmer, 1985 Here is an informative introduction to language: its origins in the past, its growth through history, and its present use for communication between peoples. It is at the same time a history of language, a guide to foreign tongues, and a method for learning them. It shows, through basic vocabularies, family resemblances of languages -- Teutonic, Romance, Greek -- helpful tricks of translation, key combinations of roots and phonetic patterns. It presents by common-sense methods the most helpful approach to the mastery of many languages; it condenses vocabulary to a minimum of essential words; it simplifies grammar in an entirely new way; and it teaches a language as it is actually used in everyday life.
  easiest slavic languages: Encyclopaedia Britannica Hugh Chisholm, 1910 This eleventh edition was developed during the encyclopaedia's transition from a British to an American publication. Some of its articles were written by the best-known scholars of the time and it is considered to be a landmark encyclopaedia for scholarship and literary style.