What is the most important thing in learning Greek?

Question

Hello

What do you think is the most important thing in learning Greek?

Answer 1

"The most important thing in learning a language" is a very general question.
It is mostly related to the objectives of each student and the reasons why he/she wants to learn the language.

For a tourist, the most important thing is to learn to communicate at an oral level, without focusing on grammar and syntax, as well as knowing basic elements of Greek culture (what is considered polite, when we use the kinder form of a word/phrase etc.)

For someone interested in studying Greek academically, it is important to study in depth the grammar and syntax as well as the ancient roots of the words. This will give him a much deeper understanding of the language.

For someone who wants to live in Greece and communicate with the locals, it is very important to learn the colloquial language, that is, the language that will be heard on the street, in everyday speech.  This is usually slightly different from the official language of the manuals.

For a comprehensive learning of Greek, however, it is recommended that the student use as many sources as possible (books, newspapers, radio and television programs, songs, etc.)

Comments

Good answer and if I may add by explaining the approach that, after much overwhelm and frustration, is finally working for me.

I am now only focused upon learning the Greek for personal things in just four categories:

1. Self Introduction
2. Work and Studies
3. Plans
4. Interests

It is really basic but forms a mental foundation or structure on which to add and expand over time.

To me though, the most "important thing" is to have fun and enjoy whichever process or route you take AND make friends with the feelings of getting it wrong and being embarrassed. From those things, real learning happens! :-)