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Learn Greek Online with Podcasts

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Over the past few years, the number of podcasts out there has continued to increase. Now, you can find a podcast on almost any subject that interests you. But did you know that you can use them to improve your Greek?

In this article, we have gathered the best Greek podcasts for each level: beginner, intermediate, advanced, and expert. Don’t miss all the tips and tricks we share later on, as they’ll help you get the most out of Greek podcasts and really boost your Greek-language skills!

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Greek Table of Contents
  1. Benefits of Using Podcasts to Learn Greek
  2. The Top 10 Podcasts for Greek Learners
  3. Tricks to Help You Learn Greek More Effectively with Podcasts
  4. Conclusion

1. Benefits of Using Podcasts to Learn Greek

A man walking in the city with a headset on

Listening to podcasts is the perfect way to improve your Greek listening skills. 

They offer plenty of benefits: 

  • Easy practice on the go
    How many hours do you spend on the go? Commuting to and from work can take up to two hours per day. Now, imagine turning those hours into something useful. Podcasts offer you the opportunity to practice Greek anytime and anywhere. You just need your smartphone and a good pair of earphones.
  • Usually affordable (or even free)
    There might be some subscription-based podcasts with a small fee, but the majority of them are free to listen to. Therefore, you can access tons of audio material and improve your Greek listening and speaking skills at little to no cost.
  • Listening skills improvement
    The more exposure you have to Greek, the better your listening skills will become. Listening to native speakers could be your great breakthrough in your Greek learning journey. And don’t forget that by improving your listening skills, you’ll also improve your speaking skills and your pronunciation.
  • Wide variety of subjects, so you can always find something that interests you
    Listening to something that does not align with your interests might be more boring than listening to nothing at all. Thankfully, more and more Greek podcasts are being produced each day, with some of them focusing on specific subjects such as comedy, social matters, or technology.

2. The Top 10 Podcasts for Greek Learners

A Young Man in His Bedroom Listening to Podcasts

Beginner

  1. GreekPod101
    GreekPod101 is the fastest and easiest way to learn Greek through podcasts. And you know why? Because the lessons themselves are podcast-style, which is ideal for beginner Greek students. However, there are also tons of lessons for learners at any level. And the best part? You’ll learn, review, and practice at the same time. Last but not least, GreekPod101 also offers a dedicated app for easy access to the material on the go.
  1. Greek on the Go
    Although this is not exactly a podcast, Greek on the Go has many podcast-like Greek resources as well as videos and everyday dialogues with transcripts. It’s perfect if you want to expand your vocabulary, learn everyday phrases, and get a glimpse of typical Greek conversations.
  1. One Minute Greek
    Can one minute of learning Greek make a difference? Sure it can! This is one of the best Greek podcasts for beginners, ideal for those who need a quick crash course before visiting Greece. While listening to this podcast, you’ll learn all the basics in a fun and engaging way.

Intermediate

  1. Your Greek Word on a Sunday
    If you have a minute to spare during your Sunday, then check out this podcast. You’ll get to learn one new Greek word each Sunday, and the audio usually lasts less than one minute. Listening just once a week can really help you get closer to your language learning goals, especially when combined with other study methods.
  1. Podcasts from the Hellenic American Union
    The Hellenic American Union has done a wonderful job putting together this podcast series aimed at promoting Greek culture. Each episode is around 10 minutes long and includes a story featuring a Greek character. This is perfect for Greek learners, regardless of their age, who want to complement their language studies with light cultural immersion.

Advanced

  1. SBS Greek
    If you’re an advanced learner and want to listen to world news in Greek, then this is the place to be! The SBS Greek podcast updates its material on a regular basis, and each episode lasts about 15 minutes.
  1. Greek for the Week
    This podcast by Chris Palmer focuses on biblical concepts, with an emphasis on discussing the New Testament in Greek. During this experience, you’ll be provided with scripts in Greek before hearing an analysis, which usually includes a lot of cultural elements.
  1. Dialogos Radio
    This podcast features interviews on a wide variety of topics, including the arts, culture, and even politics. What’s special about the Dialogos Radio podcast is that the interviews are offered in both Greek and English, so you can cross-check and make sure that you understand what you hear in depth.

Expert

  1. Greekpodcasts.com
    For a deep dive into Greek culture, visit GreekPodcasts. Here, you’ll find material from people who want to promote the Greek spirit, including deep conversations that will certainly pique your interest.
  1. Pod.gr
    This is the place where famous Greek podcasters gather, and the result is impeccable. The best part is that all podcasts here are offered for free. You can find podcasts in Greek that cover a huge range of topics, from social matters to comedy and archeology—you name it! After all, most listeners are native Greeks who fancy diving into podcasts themselves. What better way to keep your listening skills sharp?

3. Tricks to Help You Learn Greek More Effectively with Podcasts

A Happy Man Listening to Podcasts through His Headset

Now you’ve got an idea of what’s available. But how can you get the most out of Greek podcasts? How can you use them to improve your Greek?

Here are a few tips & tricks: 

  • Look up any unfamiliar words and write them down.
    A small notepad could always come in handy, or you could even utilize a digital notepad for this purpose—whichever works best for you. Write down any unfamiliar words you hear, even if you don’t know how to spell them correctly. Use Google to learn their spelling, and keep notes on their meaning and their use. Dedicate 15 minutes every day to fill in the appropriate information for each word.
  • Create flashcards with any new words you hear. 
    Using flashcards to memorize new words might not be a new learning method, but when combined with podcasts, it becomes even more useful. After writing the words down, you might want to create flashcards so you can review them from time to time. If you’re into arts and crafts, you can create traditional flashcards with pen and paper; you could also use digital platforms to store, review, and edit your own flashcards.
  • Record your own voice.
    Take advantage of podcasts to improve your pronunciation, too! It’s not only about listening, but also speaking. Write down a few phrases or sentences you hear during the podcast. Listen to them carefully and then repeat them. Record your voice and compare it to the podcast hosts’. Did it sound the same? Then you’re doing great!
  • Listen to podcasts while driving.
    Are you often stuck in traffic? Have you ever felt that your commute time was wasted? Well, not anymore! Listen to Greek podcasts while driving and learn Greek effortlessly. You could also engage with your fellow passengers and learn Greek together!
  • Adjust the speed.
    Some audio players have a speed adjustment function. This is very useful for beginners who want to take a step back and study the pronunciation of each word in greater depth. Many students find that native Greeks speak too quickly, so this function can be a real lifesaver.

4. Conclusion

A happy woman listening to podcasts on the go

In this article, we’ve introduced you to the best ways to use podcasts for Greek learning. This is something that we’re quite an expert on since podcasts are the core of our educational platform. 

GreekPod101.com grants you access to high-quality, practical lessons about the Greek language and culture. We aim to provide you with everything you need to learn Greek in a fun and interesting way. 

If you need a bit more help, you can also upgrade to Premium PLUS and take advantage of our MyTeacher service to learn Greek with your own personal teacher, who will answer any questions you might have!

Before you go, have you listened to any of the podcasts on our list? Or do you have any tips to share with the community?

Let us know in the comments below!

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How Long Does it Take to Learn Greek?

A Useful Guide for Beginners

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How long does it take to learn Greek? Is Greek a difficult language to master? How can I learn Greek fast?

These questions (and many more) might pass through your mind as you set out to start learning Greek. Is there a definite answer to all of them? Well, actually no. 

However, by the time you’re done reading this blog post, you’ll have a clearer understanding of what it takes to achieve the different levels of Greek fluency. You’ll also walk away with useful tips on how to learn the Greek language more effectively and speed up your progress.

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Greek Table of Contents
  1. Is Greek a Difficult Language?
  2. How Long Does it Take to Achieve a Beginner Level?
  3. How Long Does it Take to Achieve an Intermediate Level?
  4. How Long Does it Take to Achieve an Advanced Level?
  5. How Can I Learn Greek Faster?
  6. Conclusion

1. Is Greek a Difficult Language?

Rumor has it that Greek is difficult to learn. But does this statement correspond to reality?

A Woman Laughing and Holding a Book Over Her Head

Well, it’s not super-easy. That’s for sure.

Greek is not a Romance language, meaning it does not make use of Latin characters. Although that fact alone might intimidate new learners, the reality is more encouraging. Greek is considered a stand-alone branch of the Indo-European language family, and it has heavily influenced almost every major European language. This is mainly because modern European civilization stems from Ancient Greek civilization.  

As a result, there are many words in English (and in European Romance languages) that were originally Greek. In addition, Greece has always been in touch with other European countries, creating cultural and commercial bonds. Therefore, the Greek language also contains many originally foreign words (from French, Italian, English, etc.).

The Greek alphabet shares many common characteristics with the English alphabet, though it also includes some unique features. The similarities, however, make learning Greek even easier.

Even from a phonetic perspective, many people state that Greek sounds a bit like Spanish, Italian, or Portuguese. Therefore, it doesn’t sound that extraordinary to American and European ears. 

At this point, we should note that the difficulty you’ll have learning Greek highly depends on your mother tongue, as well. For example, some people from Asian, Arab, or African countries find it harder to adjust because their mother tongue is far more different from Greek than European languages are. 

All in all, if you’re still looking for an accurate answer here, it is: No, Greek is not that hard to learn!

Below, we’ll take a look at how long it takes to learn Greek based on the level of knowledge you’re aiming for.

2. How Long Does it Take to Achieve a Beginner Level?

Time to achieveTaking as a reference the requirements of the A1 level on the CEFR scale, you will need approximately 100-120 hours of study.
What you will learn at this levelThe learner will have the ability to communicate with native speakers at a basic level. He or she will be able to…
  • …introduce himself/herself
  • ….describe the place of his/her residence
  • ….talk about the weather….discuss hobbies and activities
  • ….describe his/her family
  • ….give and receive directions and basic phrases on how to get around the city
  • ….talk about foods and drinks.
Example lessonSpeaking Perfect Greek at a Restaurant

3. How Long Does it Take to Achieve an Intermediate Level?

Time to achieveTaking as a reference the requirements of the B1 level, you will need approximately 180-250 hours of study.
What you will learn at this levelThe learner will be able to communicate at an intermediate level, on the following subjects:

Daily transactions
  • Business
  • Travels
  • The characteristics of products
  • Methods of payment
  • Services and activities
Example lessonMaking an Appointment in Greek

4. How Long Does it Take to Achieve an Advanced Level?

Time to achieveTaking as a reference the requirements of the C1 level, you will need approximately 400-520 hours of study.
What you will learn at this levelThe learner will be able to communicate at an advanced level. This simply means that the student should be able to express his/her views on a wide variety of subjects, speaking without long disruptions and communicating effectively with public and private services for a wide variety of transactions.

In addition, at this level, the learner has gained some knowledge of the Greek culture.
Example lessonTop 10 Greek Holidays and Festivals

5. How Can I Learn Greek Faster?

A Smiling Woman Reading a Book

In the modern world, our daily routines are getting faster and faster as we try to serve many different roles throughout the day. That being said, our daily tasks often leave limited time (if any) for our hobbies, let alone learning a new language. 

Learning a new language, however, doesn’t have to take up much time within your daily schedule. The key is to find smart ways to practice—and why not even entertain yourself at the same time?

Here are a few ways to learn Greek fast: 

  • Watch Greek-Related Netflix Shows

    Although Netflix does not include much Greek-language content, there are many series and movies that are related to Greek history, mythology, or general lifestyle. These shows provide the perfect opportunity to take a step closer to the Greek culture, even if you don’t know a single word of Greek.

A Couple Watching a Movie at the Cinema
  • Watch Greek Movies

    Even if you’re not sure whether you want to pick up a new language, watching some Greek movies is the perfect way to test the waters. Greek cinematography includes movies of many genres and themes, so you’re sure to find a Greek movie that interests you.

    Tip: If you’re a complete beginner, watch the movie with English subtitles. This will familiarize you with how Greek sounds and may help you pick up some phrases. Later on, as you start learning Greek and making progress, you may switch to Greek subtitles (or no subtitles at all!).

A Happy Child Looking at a Laptop’s Screen
  • Watch Greek YouTube Channels

    Another great way to speed up your Greek learning is to watch Greek YouTube videos. These videos don’t have to be exclusively educational. There are many Greek channels covering a range of topics, from infotainment to travel and from Greek songs to famous Greek YouTubers commenting on a wide variety of subjects. One thing is for sure: You’ll be able to get yourself involved in the Greek language and culture much easier this way!

  • Read Greek Books
  • If you’re a bookworm and an intermediate Greek learner, it might be a good idea to start reading Greek books. Your options are literally endless, and you’ll be able to enhance your vocabulary quickly and easily.

    Tip: If you’re a beginner, then children’s books might be just perfect, since they use basic vocabulary and simple sentences.


A Man and a Woman Learning a New Language with Post-it Notes
  • Place Post-It Notes Around the House

    Wondering how to learn Greek vocabulary when you’re short on time? Write some Greek words and phrases on Post-It notes and place them strategically around the house—you’ll be surprised how much faster you can learn Greek this way. We tend to learn faster when we’re actively involved with the language, so what could be better than reviewing the Greek names of basic objects again and again without even noticing?

    Tip: Change the Post-It notes regularly in order to learn even more words and phrases.

  • Switch Your Smartphone’s Menu to Greek

    If you have an understanding of the basics of the Greek language, then the key to speeding up your learning progress might be as simple as switching your smartphone’s menu to Greek. This might seem annoying at first, but you’ll soon realize the benefits of reading Greek on a daily basis.

  • Invest in a Greek Language Learning App

    One of the best ways to learn a new language on the go is to utilize a language learning app like the one offered by GreekPod101.com. 


Conclusion

Learning Greek is not as hard as you might have thought after all, right?

As long as you find ways to incorporate Greek language learning into your everyday routine, you’ll be able to understand Greek in no time. 


What’s your favorite way to learn a new language? Let us know in the comments below!

Did you know you could begin learning Greek right now in an easy and fun way? Well, now you do! Create your free lifetime account on GreekPod101.com today!

GreekPod101 offers you high-quality, practical materials and lessons covering everything about the Greek language and culture. We aim to provide you with valuable lessons that will keep you interested and engaged from day one. Stay tuned for more articles like this one, word lists, grammar tips, and even YouTube videos—all this and more are waiting for you to discover them!

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How to Learn Greek in Your Car?

How to Learn Greek in Your Car? Learn language in car

Stuck in traffic? Losing time in your car? Have you ever felt that in all this wasted time, you could have watched the 750 episodes of One Piece, finished the last Super Mario ten times, or even better…you could have learned Greek? Between family, friends and work, in addition to this time-consuming commute, it can become difficult to find time to properly learn Greek.

Fortunately, every problem has a solution, and what could be a better solution than turning that commute time into learning time? Stop passing the time mindlessly listening to the radio and try some of our best tips for mastering Greek in your car!

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You can learn Greek in your car, hands free
While driving, it’s important that you keep your focus on the road, so this is why our top tips won’t require you to use your hands!

Listening to Greek audio content in the car is a good way to learn
This is because it is a fun and efficient way to learn. With GreekPod101.com podcasts, you will be able to discover Greek culture through topics about everyday life. Instead of the radio, listen to a Greek podcast adapted to your level, from Absolute Beginner to Advanced, and you will make progress sooner that you would expect!

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You can listen to Greek music in the car
Did you know that you can learn Greek by singing while driving? Listen to songs from cartoon or drama and try to identify some words you learned.

Challenge yourself! Use the Greek you’ve studied up to this point and see how much you understand! Making the jump to real-life Greek is a scary one, but friendly children’s songs are a great place to start!

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You can learn alone in your car
When you’re driving alone, you can be as loud as you want – there is nothing better for remembering your Greek lessons than repeating loudly, again and again. Next time you see a driver who seems to be talking alone, you will know he or she is just learning Greek!

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You can learn through repetition with your passengers
If there are passengers in the car, it can be more stimulating to learn together. You can set a role play with Greek dialogues. With GreekPod101.com, you can download all the lessons transcript including the dialogues, as a PDF. Print it out and have some fun speaking in Greek!

One of the passengers can answer the quiz available on each of our lessons, while another can correct that person. Listening to someone at a more advanced level of Greek or a better accent is positive and helps you improve.

You can learn Greek offline
Do you have a poor connection or are unable to use the Internet? It’s not a problem for learning Greek! Before you start your commute, use our App to download the lessons you want to study and the podcast you want to listen to in your car, and you will be able to enjoy your lessons offline. Entering a tunnel won’t be a problem anymore. What a pleasure to listen to audio content without having the host freezing every 5 seconds!

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You can learn every day at your own pace
One of the best approaches for learning a language is little by little and often. It’s not efficient to take in a huge amount of information at one time. What you need is to study on a regular basis – a little bit of Greek every day. You commute several days a week, and that is all time you can take advantage of!

You have the freedom to choose the lessons and podcasts you want to focus on, at your own rhythm. You may want to do a little revision or discover how to talk about a new topic. And if you’re wondering what to learn next, you can use the new Learning Paths, which is our customized pathway feature that gives you a step-by-step way to learn Greek without getting lost!

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Click here to access Learning Paths at GreekPod101!

If you don’t have a car and commute by another method, these tips are still valid! Learning Greek is no longer limited to the classroom or your house; there are so many benefits to learning in your car or elsewhere. Reaching a conversational level will take you less time than you could ever have imagined! Don’t forget to sign up for your Free Lifetime Account and enjoy our content!