When starting to learn a new language, many people jump straight into conversation or long texts and soon feel overwhelmed—“This is too hard” or “Maybe I can’t do this after all.”
I’ve felt the same way. I didn’t know where to begin, tried countless apps and materials, and gave up more than once.
Through those experiences, I realized that language learning works best when approached with clear, manageable steps.
Following the right order gradually transforms “understanding” into “usable skills.”
This is especially true when using generative AI to support your studies—it’s most effective when applied step by step.
This article introduces prompt examples tailored for beginners, broken down into three practical stages for learning any language.
- STEP 1: Build your vocabulary (Learn and use key words)
- STEP 2: Practice writing (Write and get corrections)
- STEP 3: Practice conversation (Speak with confidence)
STEP 1: Start with vocabulary building
You can’t read, write, or speak in another language unless you know at least some words.
If you try to jump into conversation without vocabulary, it can feel frustrating and discouraging.
With generative AI, you can ask for help like: “Teach me 20 basic words used when traveling in French,” or “Quiz me on beginner-level Spanish vocabulary.”
By customizing the difficulty and focus, you can expand your vocabulary gradually and effectively.
How to use AI for vocabulary learning
Learning vocabulary is the foundation of any language.
But memorizing long word lists can be boring and ineffective—especially if the content keeps changing each time.
A better strategy is to limit the range of vocabulary you practice at one time.
For example: “Let’s focus on these 20 beginner words in Japanese.”
This way, you can repeat and reinforce the same set, and track your progress clearly.
This focused repetition helps you actually retain words—not just recognize them, but use them confidently.
Prompt examples for vocabulary practice
- Select 20 beginner-level words in [target language], and provide their English meanings along with simple example sentences.
→ Keeps the scope clear and manageable for beginners. - Use those 20 words to create a 5-question multiple choice quiz to test understanding.
→ Great for checking retention and comprehension. - Randomly choose 5 of those words and write one example sentence for each. Highlight the words used.
→ Encourages natural usage through repetition in context. - Give me a list of 100 common beginner words in [target language] with translations. I want to choose which ones to study.
→ Allows for personalized learning within a clear framework.
Limiting the scope of what you learn—and practicing it repeatedly with AI support—makes memorization easier and more effective.
You can also save your vocabulary list and review it regularly.
STEP 2: Improve writing with AI feedback
Once you know a few words, the next step is to try writing simple sentences in your target language.
But many learners hesitate—“Is my grammar right?” “Will it sound strange?”
This is where AI really shines.
You can submit short diary entries or practice phrases, and the AI will correct mistakes and explain what to improve.
Even better, it tells you why a correction makes the sentence more natural, helping you learn deeply—not just mimic.
Prompt examples for writing practice
- I wrote a beginner-level diary entry in [target language]. Please check my grammar and vocabulary and make it more natural.
- Correct this sentence and explain what sounds unnatural:
“I am go to shopping yesterday.” - Correct this sentence and tell me what was done well and what needs improvement.
- I’ll write a simple sentence. Please rephrase it in a more natural way like a native speaker.
Generative AI works like a patient and friendly tutor who doesn’t judge you.
With practice, the fear of writing will fade.
Don’t know what to write? Ask the AI to suggest topics to get started.
- Give me 3 beginner-friendly diary topics in [target language], with example translations in English.
Next, let’s look at how to use AI to practice speaking with confidence.
STEP 3: Practice conversation for confident speaking
After learning words and writing practice, it’s time to speak.
For many learners, this is the most intimidating part.
“What should I say?” “What if I mispronounce something?” “Will I sound silly?”
I’ve had those same worries.
But with AI, you don’t have to worry.
It won’t judge you or get tired—just listen and respond with patience.
Note: As of now, free versions of ChatGPT do not support voice input/output.
However, if you use the paid mobile app (ChatGPT Plus), you can speak and listen in real time in many languages.
We’ll share setup tips in another article.
Prompt examples for conversation practice
- I want to practice slow, simple conversation in [target language]. Please use beginner-level phrases.
- Let’s role-play ordering at a cafe. You’re the staff, I’m the customer.
- Practice common greetings in a dialogue format.
- Talk with me at a basic level and kindly correct my mistakes as we go.
If you don’t know what to talk about, just ask for ideas!
Give me 3 conversation practice topics for beginners in [target language], with short English explanations.AI is always available—never tired, never judgmental.
Start with short, simple exchanges, and your confidence will grow naturally over time.
Reading, writing, and speaking are all connected.
Use what you’ve built in the first two steps, and start expressing yourself in your new language!
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