Pimsleur Chinese (Cantonese) is an audio-based language learning program that promises to help learners develop conversational skills in Cantonese Chinese. In this review, we will take a closer look at this program, including what it is, whether it is good, and whether it is worth the investment.

What is Pimsleur Chinese (Cantonese)?

Pimsleur Chinese (Cantonese) is a language learning program that focuses on teaching learners to speak Cantonese Chinese through a series of audio lessons. The program was developed by Dr. Paul Pimsleur, a renowned linguist who is widely regarded as one of the most influential language teachers of the 20th century.

The program consists of 5 levels, with each level containing 30 lessons. Each lesson is approximately 30 minutes long and features a conversation between native Cantonese speakers, as well as explanations and drills to help learners understand and practice the language. The program is designed to be used on a daily basis, with learners completing one lesson per day.

Is Pimsleur Chinese (Cantonese) good?

Pimsleur Chinese (Cantonese) has received positive reviews from many learners. Here are five things that users like about the program:

• Practical focus: The program focuses on teaching learners conversational Cantonese, which is practical for those who plan to use the language for work or travel.
• Repetition-based learning: The program uses a spaced repetition system that helps learners retain the vocabulary and grammar taught in each lesson.
• Native speaker conversations: The program features conversations between native Cantonese speakers, helping learners to develop listening and comprehension skills.
• Effective pronunciation drills: The program places a strong emphasis on pronunciation, with many drills and exercises designed to help learners develop a clear and accurate accent.
• Flexibility: The program can be used at home, in the car, or on the go, making it convenient for learners with busy schedules.

However, there are also a few things that users do not like about the program:

• Lack of visual aids: The program is audio-based, which means that learners do not have access to visual aids like written texts or images.
• Limited vocabulary: Some users feel that the program's vocabulary is too limited and does not prepare learners for more complex conversations.
• Price: The program is relatively expensive compared to some other language learning options, which may be a barrier for some learners.

Is Pimsleur Chinese (Cantonese) worth it?

Whether or not Pimsleur Chinese (Cantonese) is worth the investment depends on the individual learner's goals, budget, and learning style. Here are a few factors to consider:

• Budget: Pimsleur Chinese (Cantonese) is relatively expensive compared to other language learning options, so learners should consider whether they can afford the program.
• Learning style: The program is audio-based, so learners who prefer visual aids may not find it effective.
• Goals: The program is designed to help learners develop conversational Cantonese, so it may not be suitable for learners who need to develop other language skills like reading and writing.
• Time commitment: The program requires daily practice, so learners who do not have the time to commit to daily study may not find it effective.

How a frequency dictionary would complement Pimsleur Chinese (Cantonese)

A frequency dictionary is a tool that lists the most commonly used words in a language in order of frequency. Using a frequency dictionary in conjunction with Pimsleur Chinese (Cantonese) could help learners expand their vocabulary and improve their understanding of the language.

By learning the most commonly used words first, learners can build a strong foundation in the language and develop the skills necessary to understand and participate in conversations more quickly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Pimsleur Chinese (Cantonese) is a great tool for anyone looking to learn Cantonese in an effective and efficient way. It provides a structured learning approach that gradually builds up your skills through repetition and reinforcement, with a focus on practical conversation skills. Users appreciate the clear and concise instruction, the convenience of being able to learn on-the-go, and the helpful cultural insights included throughout the lessons.

However, there are some downsides to consider, such as the lack of written materials and the relatively high cost compared to other language learning resources. It's also important to note that while Pimsleur is an effective tool for developing listening and speaking skills, it may not be the best option for those looking to learn how to read and write Chinese characters.

To supplement your learning with Pimsleur Chinese (Cantonese), a frequency dictionary would be a great resource. This type of dictionary lists the most commonly used words in a language in order of frequency, allowing you to focus on the words and phrases that are most important to learn first. This would complement Pimsleur's conversation-focused approach and help you build a strong foundation in the language. Overall, Pimsleur Chinese (Cantonese) is a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to develop their Cantonese language skills in a practical and effective way.