Before we start discussing the best Afrikaans podcasts (free language learning tools of note, especially if you sign up with us at AfrikaansPod101), did you know that the translation of "podcast" in Afrikaans is potgooi? When literally translated, the word potgooi has zero relation to the (usually) downloadable episodic talk recordings streamed online. Let me explain. Pot is a homophone of the English word "pod," but literally, pot has the same meaning as the English "pot"—a noun describing certain containers, such as the cooking vessel that's typically found in the kitchen, the container in which to grow plants, and so forth.  Interestingly, "pot" is also a transitive verb that means "to hit" or “to shoot” in both languages: Die... Show more

Hoe lank neem dit om Afrikaans te leer? (How long does it take to learn Afrikaans?)  Well, it's not possible to tell this with 100% accuracy, because the speed of one’s learning progress depends on a few variables. Any answer to this question should probably start with the sober truth, though, which is that learning any new language (at least to a level of reasonable proficiency) normally takes many hours of study and practice. That's simply the nature of language studies. Of course, one can speed up the process with good learning tools and study habits. But mastering it overnight or in only a couple of weeks from scratch? That only happens in the movies. But don't be discouraged! It is possible to be a winner at learning... Show more