If you’re learning a foreign language, there is always the need to go beyond the standard textbooks and listening materials. Resources like CDs, DVDs, and even movies in that particular language help you become a good listener and communicator.
Also, these days, there is plenty of software available that helps you learn better and faster. On Linux too, there are many such applications that can push you further in your linguistic endeavors without you having to pay a single penny. Here is a list of the best ones.
Verbiste
Verbiste is a free application that helps you with conjugation of French and Italian verbs. Written in C++, this open-source tool gives you complete conjugations of any verb. Moreover, since Verbiste doesn’t rely on the net, you get the results instantly even while you’re offline.
Simply launch the software and enter the verb you want to conjugate to get started. You don’t even need to enter the verb in its infinitive form, you can simply enter the third person plural or past tense and get the complete conjugation. Another great thing about Verbiste is that it shows the results in a nicely organized format allowing you to pick out the conjugation you want.
Jargon Informatique
If you are learning French but don’t know much of the technical jargon, don’t worry Jargon Informatique has got you covered. The software is entirely in French, so if you’re a beginner, this application isn’t for you; however, it can be quite beneficial for advanced learners.
OpenTeacher
OpenTeacher is a free vocabulary teacher that helps users learn foreign languages. The way this application teaches you is very simple: you enter a list of words with their meanings, and it asks you different questions till you perfect your vocabulary. Though the tool works great for perfecting your vocabulary, it does, however, turn out to be quite a tedious task to enter all the words manually.
Perroquet
Perroquet is an unique language learning tool that focuses on the listening comprehension part. You see a video clip with the subtitles and listen to it once carefully, Then, Perroquet tests you by showing you the same sequence without subtitles only now you have to guess the words by yourself. Overall a great free tool for improving your listening skills.
Parley
Part of the KDE Education Project, Parley is a great vocabulary trainer for Linux. With pre-made vocabulary collections available for download, Parley lets you memorize words using ‘Flashcards’. Furthermore, you can learn mixed letters, conjugations, synonyms, and antonyms by simply downloading new vocabulary collections.
Anki
Though a flashcard-based study tool, Anki does come in handy if you’re looking to strengthen your vocabulary. What makes Anki stand apart from other tools is that it comes with more features like inline editing, statistics and graphs, online syncing, and Kanji language support. Furthermore, you can also extend the application’s functionality by installing new plugins.