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Can You Learn a Language by Watching TV?

Can You Learn a Language by Watching TV?

6 min
Maria Gracia••
6 min

📱 Quick Version Available!
Watch the short video for key highlights, but don't miss the in-depth insights in the article.

Can You Learn a Language by Watching TV? The Science Says Yes

If I told you that one of the best tools for learning languages isn't a a classroom or app, but Netflix, would you believe me? It may sound strange, but movies and series can be incredibly powerful for improving your listening comprehension and learning vocabulary and grammar in context.

The evidence is compelling: there's a clear divide across Europe that perfectly illustrates this. Northern European countries consistently rank at the top of English proficiency rankings, while Southern European countries lag behind. The difference? How they watch TV.

The European TV Divide: A Natural Language Learning Experiment

English Level in Europe

Let's look at the numbers from the 2024 EF English Proficiency Index:

Top Second Language English-Speaking Countries in the World:

  • Netherlands (#1)
  • Norway (#2)
  • Sweden (#4)

Southern Europe:

  • Spain (#36)
  • Italy (#46)
  • France (#49)
  • Türkiye (#65)

What's the key difference? Subtitles vs. dubbing.

A groundbreaking study called "TV or not TV? The impact of subtitling on English skills" found compelling evidence:

There is a large positive effect for subtitled original version broadcasts, as opposed to dubbed television, on English proficiency scores.

The research shows that citizens of countries where television is broadcast in the original version have significantly better English vocabulary, grammar, and listening comprehension than those in countries where programs are dubbed.

The magnitude of this effect is remarkable: equivalent to 16.9% (one and a half standard deviations) of the average level of English skills.

Why This Matters for Your Language Learning

Every time you turn on Netflix or YouTube, you're getting language exposure and listening practice. You're learning through massive amounts of input without even trying. This is at the core of effective language acquisition.

Comparing Portugal (#6) vs. Spain (#36) is particularly telling.

Spain and Portugal share many geographical and cultural traits. But the number of Spanish speakers is double that of Portuguese speakers. Again, maybe in part because of this, Portugal uses subtitling while in Spain television is dubbed. And, as a result, Portugal's results in the TOEFL exams are much better than Spain's.

How to Turn Netflix into Your Language Learning Superpower

1. The Foundation: Comprehensible Input

Language learning thrives on receiving large amounts of Comprehensible Input. Exposure to content that's understandable in context. Series and movies are excellent for this because visual information reinforces the meaning of words and phrases you hear.

Getting input from TV

You're not just having fun, you're improving your listening skills and expanding your vocabulary effortlessly.

2. Master the Art of Subtitles

The way you use subtitles can make or break your learning process. Here's the right approach:

✅ DO:

  • Turn on subtitles in the language you're learning, not your native language
  • Choose content with closed captions (they mirror exactly what's being said)
  • Focus on the target language audio while reading the target language subtitles

❌ DON'T:

  • Rely constantly on native language subtitles (your brain will take the easy route)
  • Skip subtitles entirely if you're a beginner

💡 PRO TIP: If you need support, activate native language subtitles only occasionally, not constantly.

3. Expand Your Content Library

Sometimes content in your target language isn't available in your region. A simple solution is using a VPN to access a larger library. For example, if you're learning French, change your location to France to access more authentic French content.

4. Beginner-Friendly Strategies

If you're just starting out, watching series in a new language can feel overwhelming. Make it more accessible:

Start with familiar content:

  • Rewatch series or movies you've already seen in your native language
  • Knowing the story lets you focus on language rather than plot

Choose simpler content:

  • Children's shows and cartoons use clearer, simpler language
  • Animation often has more expressive visual cues

Content progression:

  • Animated movies → Family shows → Teen dramas → Adult content
  • Comedy shows → Action series → Drama series

5. The Shadowing Technique: Next-Level Learning

Want to supercharge your learning? Try shadowing: repeating what characters say almost simultaneously, imitating their pronunciation and intonation.

How to shadow effectively:

  1. Start with short, simple dialogues
  2. Pause the movie and repeat what the character said
  3. Focus on rhythm and intonation
  4. Practice with the same scene multiple times
  5. Gradually increase complexity

This technique bridges the gap between passive listening and active speaking practice.

Content Recommendations by Language Level

Level Content Type Examples Focus
Beginner Children's shows, familiar movies Disney films, simple sitcoms Basic vocabulary, clear pronunciation
Intermediate Teen shows, light dramas Friends, Modern Family Conversational patterns, cultural context
Advanced News, documentaries, complex dramas Netflix originals, local news Natural speech, cultural nuances

The Science Behind TV-Based Learning

Research consistently shows that subtitled content provides multiple benefits:

Cognitive advantages:

Practical benefits:

  • Flexible learning schedule
  • Engaging, entertaining content
  • Real-world language usage
  • Motivation through enjoyment

Surprisingly, only 12% of Europeans think television is useful for learning foreign languages, yet it's one of the most effective methods available.

Beyond Netflix: Expanding Your TV-Based Learning

YouTube channels: Find content creators in your target language Streaming platforms: Explore local services (BBC iPlayer, France TV, Twitch etc.) Podcasts with video: Many podcasts now offer video versions Live TV: News channels provide current, relevant content

The Role of Lenguia

At Lenguia, we believe in the power of comprehensible input through engaging content. Our platform creates personalized content at your level that matches your interests, because when content is compelling, learning happens naturally.

We've built our entire approach around the same principles that make TV-based learning so effective: natural language acquisition through context. Reading on Lenguia and listening to our stories and podcasts with transcripts is the perfect edition to your TV exposure!

References

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