How to Learn Languages: 9 Proven Polyglot Strategies

Language connects us, offering a gateway into diverse cultures, histories, and human experiences. For Steve Kaufman, a polyglot fluent in over 20 languages, the process of acquiring languages is less about rules and grammar and more about curiosity, motivation, and immersion. In a fascinating conversation, Kaufman shared his 50-year journey of language learning, emphasizing how anyone - regardless of age, background, or perceived talent - can embrace multilingualism.

This article explores Kaufman’s insights, strategies, and experiences, providing a roadmap for aspiring language learners. Whether you’re picking up your first foreign language or tackling your tenth, this transformative approach will inspire and guide you.

A Life Shaped by Language: Kaufman's Story

Steve Kaufman’s multilingual journey began in a uniquely multicultural environment. Born in Sweden to Czechoslovakian parents, he was exposed to Czech, German, and Swedish early in life. At age five, his family relocated to Montreal, Canada, where English became his primary language. While surrounded by French in Montreal, Kaufman’s interest in the language didn’t develop until he attended McGill University, where an inspiring professor ignited his passion for French culture.

From there, Kaufman’s journey unfolded as a series of adventures fueled by curiosity. He immersed himself in French while studying in Paris, learned Chinese during a diplomatic posting in Hong Kong, and mastered Japanese while living in Tokyo. His career in international trade provided ample opportunities to engage with different cultures, showing how language breaks stereotypes and deepens human connections.

Kaufman’s story reveals a powerful truth: while growing up in a multilingual environment may provide an advantage, it’s not a prerequisite for language learning success. Motivation, exposure, and consistent effort are the real driving forces.

The Key to Language Learning: Motivation and Exposure

Throughout his journey, Kaufman has consistently emphasized the importance of motivation. "The best thing a teacher can do is excite the interest of the learner", he noted. Language learning is not about memorizing grammar rules or mastering verb conjugations upfront but about cultivating a genuine curiosity for the language and its culture.

Bottom-Up Learning

Kaufman advocates for a "bottom-up" approach to language learning, where learners focus on absorbing words and phrases through meaningful exposure. Immersing yourself in the language - whether by listening to podcasts, reading, or conversing - is far more effective than a "top-down" approach that prioritizes grammar explanations.

For example, when Kaufman began learning French, he didn’t focus on mastering grammar. Instead, he watched French films, read literature, and listened to French radio. His studies were fueled by a desire to understand and engage with French culture, making learning both enjoyable and effective.

Mistakes as Stepping Stones

Mistakes, Kaufman insists, are an essential part of the process. "Language learning is an error-driven, probabilistic process", he explained. Every misstep, mispronunciation, or misunderstood word refines your understanding. For Kaufman, even embarrassing moments are valuable because they create lasting memories that help reinforce correct usage.

Kaufman’s Proven Strategies for Learning Languages

Across his journey, Kaufman has developed several strategies that have helped him acquire languages - even those far removed from his native English or previously learned languages. Here are the key techniques he recommends:

1. Focus on Input First

For Kaufman, listening and reading are the most critical components of language learning. At the beginner level, he suggests listening to recordings and reading transcripts repeatedly to familiarize yourself with the language’s sounds and structures. This input-driven method builds a foundation for your speaking and writing skills.

2. Motivation Drives Success

Without genuine interest, language learning becomes a chore. Kaufman suggests finding content in the language that aligns with your passions - be it podcasts, books, movies, or YouTube videos. For example, while learning Persian, Kaufman immersed himself in a podcast exploring history, culture, and science - topics that captured his curiosity.

3. Don’t Fear Grammar, But Don’t Start There

Grammar has its place but shouldn’t be the focus of early learning. According to Kaufman, understanding grammar rules is more meaningful after you’ve gained exposure to the language. He advises learners to revisit grammar explanations later on, once they’ve encountered the relevant structures in context.

4. Embrace Repetition

Revisiting content multiple times is key to internalizing vocabulary and language patterns. Kaufman recommends starting with simplified, repetitive material, like beginner stories, before moving on to more complex texts.

5. Commit to the Long Game

Language learning is a marathon, not a sprint. Kaufman likens it to entrepreneurship, emphasizing the need for persistence. Progress may seem slow at times - especially when tackling low-frequency vocabulary - but staying the course is essential.

The Age Factor: Debunking the Myth

One of the most remarkable aspects of Kaufman’s story is how he disproves the belief that language learning is only for the young. Half the languages Kaufman speaks were acquired after the age of 60. How did he do it? By staying motivated and maintaining a consistent learning routine.

"It may be that I’m not as good at learning languages now as I was earlier", Kaufman admitted, "but it doesn’t matter. I can still learn." His experience serves as a testament to the idea that it’s never too late to pursue new skills. Age is no barrier to curiosity, and with the right approach, anyone can achieve language-learning success.

Lessons from a Polyglot: Applying Kaufman’s Advice

For those embarking on their own language-learning journeys, Kaufman’s experiences provide valuable insights. Here are the key takeaways from his story:

Key Takeaways

Start with Input: Prioritize listening and reading to build a foundation for vocabulary and comprehension.
Leverage Motivation: Find content that aligns with your personal interests to make learning enjoyable.
Make Mistakes: View errors as opportunities to refine your skills, not as setbacks.
Focus on Repetition: Revisit the same material multiple times to internalize language patterns.
Be Patient: Accept that progress takes time, especially when learning low-frequency vocabulary.
Use Technology: Explore language-learning tools and platforms, such as apps and online resources, to enhance exposure.
Stay Curious: Approach the language with cultural "weightlessness", free of stereotypes or preconceived notions.
Age is Not a Barrier: Whether you’re 20 or 60, consistent effort will lead to results.
Transition Gradually: Start with beginner-friendly material and move to authentic content as your skills improve.

Conclusion: A Journey Worth Taking

Steve Kaufman’s journey underscores a powerful truth: language learning is about much more than acquiring a skill - it’s about connecting with people, cultures, and ideas. Whether you’re learning for personal enrichment, professional opportunities, or pure curiosity, the process itself can be deeply rewarding.

By focusing on input, embracing mistakes, and staying motivated, you can make meaningful progress in any language. As Kaufman’s story shows, it’s not about age, talent, or perfection - it’s about showing up, staying curious, and enjoying the adventure of discovery. So, what’s stopping you from starting your own language-learning journey today?

Source: "How This 80 Year Old Speaks 20 Languages: Steve Kaufmann's Incredible Story | Evolve Podcast" - Evolve HQ, YouTube, Sep 11, 2025 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXYSfcs3WfE

Use: Embedded for reference. Brief quotes used for commentary/review.