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Explore o mundo e treine seu cérebro: Por que é importante aprender outro idioma?

Explora el mundo y entrena tu cerebro: ¿Por qué es importante aprender otro idioma?

Explore the World and Train Your Brain: Why Is It Important to Learn Another Language?

Articles by Promova tutors and experts about learning languages, education, and cultural experiences in general

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In the ever-evolving world of language learning apps, Promova is dedicated to prioritizing inclusivity and accessibility. Daryna Mednikova, Chief Product Officer, shared the company’s mission to create a user-friendly, innovative platform that meets the needs of all learners, especially those who are neurodivergent.<h2>Commitment to Supporting Neurodiverse Learners</h2>Promova is committed to providing&nbsp;experiences that cater to diverse cognitive needs. Daryna explains, “We build our product with great empathy for the user. Through constant research, we've found that many of them face various forms of attention issues when learning a language.”This insight is no surprise in our information-filled era. "An average person processes around 34 gigabytes of information per day from various sources like social media, emails, news, and conversations. Moreover, daily information intake has increased significantly over the years. For instance, individuals are estimated to process about 5% more information each year compared to previous ones. Such a constant influx of data inevitably impacts our cognitive abilities, including the capacity to focus and learn effectively. It's estimated that up to 20% of people are neurodivergent, so building a product effective for different minds is crucial”.&nbsp;<h2>Enhancing Accessibility&nbsp;</h2>Promova has made strides in addressing dyslexia and is currently working on adaptations for a spectrum of neurodiverse needs. Daryna reveals, "We've just kicked off the second iteration of our Dyslexia Mode, which includes audio-visual versions of the product to be more compatible with users who have various forms of dyslexia.”&nbsp;Launched on October 3, 2023, Dyslexia Mode 1.0 uses a special font developed by dyslexic designer Martin Pyšný. Dysfont features simple letter shapes that are less likely to be confused with one another (for example, similar letters like "b" and "d" or "p" and "q"), optimized spacing to prevent overcrowding of characters, and a design that reduces visual stress, making it easier for learners with dyslexia to read text clearly and quickly.“Dyslexia Mode 2.0 includes changes to the app layout and color palette based on recommendations from Martin Pyšný. Another key improvement is the removal of text in all capital letters. For many dyslexic users, capital letters can be harder to read due to their uniform shape and height, making word recognition slower. Lowercase letters often have distinct features, like ascenders and descenders (the parts of letters that extend above or below the line, such as in “b” or “p”), which aid in word recognition and spacing. By using both upper and lowercase letters, we’ve made text more distinguishable, helping learners read more comfortably than is possible with all-caps. Additionally, we’ve introduced a white noise feature to improve concentration.”Promova's commitment to accessibility goes beyond supporting neurodivergent users. "We're going to work on a dark mode soon. It's very important for learners to study without flashing," the CPO reveals. “Night time is convenient for a specific cohort to make their half an hour before bedtime productive. We want to make this cozy and not complicated for them.”Looking ahead, Promova plans to introduce dynamic type settings, allowing users with visual impairments to adjust font structures and sizes based on their needs. The team also continuously improves its UI/UX based on ongoing input from users. "We enjoy talking with our learners. We have product advocates who regularly provide us with feedback. We continue to launch dedicated interviews to gather their thoughts. And this is really a super exciting part of our job!"<h2>Role-Play Activities</h2>Promova's flagship feature, AI role-play, is revolutionizing language learning for everyone, especially neurodivergent learners. Daryna explains its unique benefits: “Our AI role-play creates a stress-free environment where users can practice language without fears — fear of judgment, fear of making mistakes, fear of speaking too slowly, and other anxieties that come with practicing with real people.” Indeed, AI offers a safe space for learners to take risks, make errors, and just be themselves, without feeling self-conscious or embarrassed.This approach is especially valuable for those who struggle with attention span issues, including individuals with ADHD. “We pay close attention to the context of our learning materials, looking at how complex the lessons are and how engaging they feel,” Daryna continues. “We've found that for some users, monotonous repetitive exercises alone are not enough to maintain focus and reduce cognitive load.”To address these challenges, Promova has developed a diverse set of features designed to keep the learning experience fresh and exciting. “In August, we launched an AI-based practice where users create sentences with previously learned words,” Daryna explains. “This&nbsp;works alongside our other features like reading lessons, cultural insights, vocabulary flashcards, and quizzes. Our goal has always been to provide a variety of interactive elements, ensuring there's always something new for users to explore and engage with.”<h2>White Noise&nbsp;</h2>One of the newest standout features in Promova's toolkit is the white noise function. While it was designed with users who have ADHD in mind, it offers benefits that extend to all learners. According to the CPO, “It is a specific frequency that has been scientifically proven to dramatically improve user focus, and the memory comprehension of the learned content is increased. Think about it as a sound bubble that is specifically created for the user to make them hyper-focused on what's happening when working on the lesson cards.”The white noise creates a consistent audio background that helps learners focus intensely on the content by removing external distractions. It is mainly used for lessons requiring longer attention spans, such as grammar quizzes or reading exercises. However, the feature is not intended for speaking or pronunciation exercises, where clear audio input is crucial.<h2>Addressing Attention Deficits&nbsp;</h2>In today’s fast-paced digital world, attention span becomes the key determinant in the way we learn. As Daryna Mednikova highlights, “We’re exposed to an overwhelming amount of information daily, both visually and through reading, and it keeps increasing. Our interaction with content on social media has changed the way our brains respond to and process information.”This change has led to what the CPO refers to as the “music video attention type”: “Users quickly grasp small chunks of information and get a quicker emotional reaction to them. But then the problem comes with how to create a lasting memory from that, so that the right information is used when they are faced with speaking practice or relevant real-life situations.”Keeping that in mind, Promova has developed a methodology for users with shorter attention spans. It relies on consistency and bite-sized sessions: “It’s far more beneficial to study for 10 minutes a day or have two 10-minute sessions than to cram for 40 minutes just once a week”.<h2>Navigating Challenges&nbsp;</h2>By pushing the boundaries of accessible language learning, the team faces complex decisions and technical hurdles. Daryna Mednikova cites prioritization as the biggest challenge: "We have a lot on our plate, and it's really important for us to pick what’s important for the users that can also really improve their learning experience." This careful balancing act requires the team to constantly evaluate which features will have the most significant impact on learners, especially those with diverse needs.The global nature of language learning adds another layer of complexity. "It's important for us to make sure that the product has outstanding performance, and that users with different devices in different geographies can have a positive interaction with it." This global reach means considering a wide array of gadgets, internet speeds, and cultural contexts.<h2>Shaping the Future</h2>Looking out at the bigger landscape of educational apps, "a lot of products on the market are doing a really good job at working on product accessibility." Daryna points to advances in development frameworks that have made it easier to implement those features, nudging the industry forward.Accessibility is just the tip of the iceberg. Promova is tackling what she calls "an issue wider and more complicated than just the process of language learning." That goal is to create an adaptive environment that meets each user where they are. "One of our main values is actually to add building blocks that make the world a better place." This is decidedly not at all just marketing speak. It's clear in every line of their product, from the thoughtfully laid-out visuals down to such innovative features as the dyslexia-friendly font and white noise integration.Promova is also cultivating a global community founded on mutual respect and understanding. “We have the internal values in terms of which content and how to provide the content so that we can support tolerance, respect in different cultures, and just making this feeling of the world and community as a united place. This is one of our main competitive advantages. Users report that the product is joyful, easy to use, and respectful.”With each of these steps, though, comes a realization that much more can be done to make language learning fully accessible. Technology moves fast, and with it, so does the understanding of the diversity of needs. And this is why Promova will continue setting trends for inclusive experiences. While the world seems to become more divided every day, we build bridges, one lesson at a time.

In the ever-evolving world of language learning apps, Promova is dedicated to prioritizing inclusivity and accessibility. Daryna Mednikova, Chief Product Officer, shared the company’s mission to create a user-friendly, innovative platform that meets the needs of all learners, especially those who are neurodivergent.

Daryna Mednikova: “It's estimated that up to 20% of people are neurodivergent, so building a product effective for different minds is crucial.” 

We always wish our family and loved ones the best. That’s why we take every chance to support them, including saying the right words at the right time. One of the good ways to do it is to wish them success in attaining their achievements. You can say&nbsp;good luck in English in many variations, whether for personal or career endeavors. Look at our selection of classic phrases and slang expressions related to sending someone positive vibes for any occasion.<h2>Beyond “Good Luck”: Expanding Your Vocabulary with English Well-Wishing Phrases</h2>In English culture, luck is a&nbsp;belief synonym, a mix of superstitions and hopes for a positive future. Some might feel that carrying particular symbols like rabbit’s foot or four-leaf clovers is the driving force in attracting positive vibes.&nbsp;Besides lucky charms,&nbsp;how&nbsp;we talk may also affect a favorable outcome. You’re probably familiar with a classic, “Good luck.” There are plenty of other phrases to diversify your language and suit distinct situations.<h2>Common Alternatives to Say “Good Luck” in English</h2>Good luck phrases put a smile on the faces of those you’re rooting for, making them&nbsp;<a href="/blog/english-idioms-about-happiness">happy</a> and confident. Look at this selection of common expressions you may typically hear in everyday talks,&nbsp;and in many movies and series.The first one is “best of luck.” You can say it to wish someone success in various contexts. For instance, when the other person is about to take a difficult test.Another word for good luck is&nbsp;“<a href="https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/break-a-leg">break a leg</a>.” You may be frustrated, but we will explain everything in a second. You’re not supposed to break your bones literally; this is just theatrical jargon. This one originates from the theater environment, where saying “Good luck” is considered to be quite the opposite.“Fingers&nbsp;Crossed” has a fascinating&nbsp;history that can be traced back to the 18th century. Initially, this saying was an actual gesture to invoke the favor of good spirits. Nowadays, you can hear this expression in everyday conversations.You may be on your way to&nbsp;<a href="/blog/what-is-the-best-way-to-learn-english">learning English</a> or a fluent speaker who wants to know&nbsp;more&nbsp;about the language. Either way, picking up new words and phrases is super important for any level, as the language is never static. Stop using the same old sayings; expand your vocabulary with new words for different situations.<h2>Wishing&nbsp;Good Luck: Formal Phrases for Professional and Academic Settings</h2>English is full of specific phrases that go well in various settings.&nbsp;You can use the following variants to send someone positive vibes in particular endeavors.“Wishing you success.”&nbsp;It shows support to someone who is on the fence about launching a project or in similar situations. This one is also an ideal encouragement to send positive vibes to someone who’s about to take exams or important presentations.“All the best in your endeavors.”&nbsp;This&nbsp;good luck synonym phrase has a broader meaning&nbsp;than&nbsp;the previous one. The very word “endeavors” here refers to current or future efforts. So, it fits when you hope a person succeeds in various tasks, like relocation or starting an entirely new career.5<h2>Best Wishes: Casual Expressions for Friends and Family</h2>Language never stops evolving, continually incorporating&nbsp;<a href="/blog/how-to-learn-new-words-in-english-everyday">new words</a> and expressions. So, you can often find conversational slang variants of wishing well to your buddies or loved ones.“You got this” is a&nbsp;helpful&nbsp;phrase when you want to convince someone they are good enough to do something. Basically, you’re saying that you strongly believe that the other person possesses the necessary skills to make it in the given situation. You may use it when your friend is one minute away from freaking out before going on an important interview.Another way to say good luck is&nbsp;“Knock ‘em dead.”&nbsp;This means “to impress people&nbsp;greatly, especially with your appearance.” You can use this to boost the other person’s confidence in a reassuring tone. It’s similar to the “Go for it” or “You’ve got this!” connotation.<h2>Cultural Insights: Regional Variations in English Well-Wishing</h2>In many English-speaking countries, distinct expressions are common in a particular region. For instance, if you walk in the streets of NYC, you’ll notice that people mostly use&nbsp;“Break a leg,”&nbsp;“All the best,”&nbsp;“Fingers crossed,”&nbsp;“You got this,”&nbsp;and&nbsp;“I hope you do well.”&nbsp;On the other hand, if you go to the UK, you’ll hear “the best of Britain!”, especially when someone is doubtful about nailing the situation.&nbsp;Interestingly, British English has&nbsp;another word for saying that someone is lucky. Just call them “Jammy.” In addition, other classic variants are common in the UK as well.The Irish have a unique expression about luck. When they wish someone to attain their goals, they say,&nbsp;“Go n-éirí leat” IPA [ɡə nʲeːɾʲiː lʲat̪ˠ] [guh NAY-ree lat]. The first part,&nbsp;“Go n-éirí,”&nbsp; means “will succeed.” The last one,&nbsp;“leat,”&nbsp;stands for the person to whom you wish to handle the situation with flying colors.Australians are known as laid back and friendly. The same applies to their English. What do you think&nbsp;“Chookas”&nbsp;means? Basically, this is the Australian equivalent of the standard “Break a leg” or “All the best.” It’s translated as “chicken.” There are different versions of its origin. However, officially, it’s connected to cultural tradition and is just a playful term for wishing a successful show, performance, etc.<h2>Promova: Growing Your Vocabulary with Interactive Lessons</h2>Are you just starting your English learning path or an experienced one who wants to strengthen your language skills? Join&nbsp;<a href="/app/english-language-learning-app">Promova</a>, a one-stop solution that helps eager learners of all levels become fluent in English. The learning platform offers valuable interactive studying materials with contemporary vocabulary about&nbsp;good luck quotes and more to apply in real-life situations.For your convenience, Promova offers you the following studying programs:<ul><li>Individual lessons with expert tutors holding certificates of proficiency.</li><li>Group lessons with other eager students under the guidance of a professional teacher.</li><li>Online courses with bite-sized lessons for individual learning.</li><li>Free conversation club where you can discuss the latest trends and news&nbsp;weekly.</li></ul>You can download the basic app version for free and start with English fundamentals. For savvy learners, we have something special. Sign up for a Premium plan to access advanced content with more slang and language insights. Individual lessons and group sessions are available on both versions. Moreover, the first trial 1×1 session won’t cost you anything. So, join the community of eager learners! We wish you all the best in your endeavors!<h2>Conclusion</h2>On some days, your loved ones may need to hear words of encouragement from you more than ever. Learn various ways to express your affection and support in English. For beginners and experienced students, it’s a perfect way to pick up new vocabulary and diversify their speech.

We always wish our family and loved ones the best. That’s why we take every chance to support them, including saying the right words at the right time. One of the good ways to do it is to wish them success in attaining their achievements.

Good Luck in English: Common and Creative Ways of Wishing Someone Success

Many people think the most challenging part of learning a language is taking the first steps and learning your first words. The beginning of the journey seems more exciting and intriguing, which gives you more motivation. The tough part is facing the first problems and understanding the grammatical features of the language.&nbsp;Por vs. para in Spanish topic can be your first obstacle. But don't worry – this guide will help you out!<h2>Understanding the Difference: “Por” vs. “Para”</h2>Both of these words are prepositions that Spanish people use to indicate a goal. So what's the difference? The challenging part is what meaning we put into the word “goal.” “Por” indicates a reason or motive, and “para” – an objective or result. Still not very clear, right? Here are some examples of&nbsp;difference between “por” and “para”:<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Aspect</td><td>Por</td><td>Para</td><td>Explanation</td></tr><tr><td>Reason / Cause</td><td>Lo hago por ti (I do it because of you).</td><td>Estudio para aprobar (I study to pass).</td><td>“Por” explains the reason/motive, “Para” the goal or purpose.</td></tr><tr><td>Means / Method</td><td>Viajamos por tren (We travel by train).</td><td>Trabajo para una empresa (I work for a company).</td><td>“Por” refers to means or medium, and "Para" indicates who/what the action benefits.</td></tr><tr><td>Duration / Time Frame</td><td>Estuve en España por dos semanas (I was in Spain for two weeks).</td><td>Este proyecto es para mañana (This project is for tomorrow).</td><td>“Por” shows duration, “Para” sets a deadline or future point.</td></tr><tr><td>Exchange / Price</td><td>Te lo cambio por otro (I’ll exchange it for another one).</td><td>Este regalo es para ti (This gift is for you).</td><td>“Por” indicates exchange or cost, “Para” marks intended recipient.</td></tr><tr><td>Destination / Goal</td><td>Camino por el parque (I walk through the park).</td><td>Voy para el parque (I’m going to the park).</td><td>“Por” refers to the route, “Para” to the destination.</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>What do all these examples have in common? These cases of using the “por” meaning indicate more about the process itself: walking, traveling, etc. It is used in more “relaxed” cases. At the same time, a pair indicates the final goal: the result, point B, benefit.1<h2>Common Uses of “Por”: Reasons, Causes, and Means</h2>Let's look at each case separately to understand the topic of&nbsp;“para” vs. “por” more deeply. So, “por” is used in the context of a reason and emphasizes this difference in situations. Here are some examples of contexts where this word is appropriate:<ul><li>Reason or motive: “No salí por la lluvia.” – I didn't go out because of the rain.</li><li>Intermediate stage: “Por el camino, vimos muchos pueblos pequeños.” – Along the way, we saw many small villages.</li><li>Time and duration:&nbsp;“Trabajé por cinco horas” – I worked for five hours.</li><li>Value or exchange: “Compré este libro por 10 euros.” – I bought this book for 10 euros.</li><li>Method of communication:&nbsp;“Hablamos por teléfono.” – We spoke on the phone.</li></ul>In addition to these phrases, you may have heard common expressions with&nbsp;“por” in Spanish, such as “por favor” (please),&nbsp;<a href="/blog/porque-vs-por-que-in-spanish">“por qué”</a> (why), or “por lo menos” (at least). You should memorize them&nbsp;because they are part of the active vocabulary of Spanish.<h2>Common Uses of “Para”: Purposes, Goals, and Destinations</h2>What does “para” mean in Spanish? “Para” adds specificity to speech. You’re not just going to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.britannica.com/facts/McDonalds">McDonald’s</a>; you’re going to McDonald’s to try the summer menu. This preposition is&nbsp;frequently used&nbsp;in everyday speech and fits nicely into a variety of contexts:<ul><li>Purpose or intention:&nbsp;“Estudio para ser médico.” – I’m studying to become a doctor.</li><li>Recipient of the action: “Esta carta es para Juan.” – This letter is for Juan.</li><li>Deadlines: “Este proyecto debería estar terminado para el viernes.” – This project should be finished by Friday.</li><li>Destination: “Salgo para Madrid mañana.” – I'm leaving for Madrid tomorrow.</li><li>Point of view: “Para mí, este libro es interesante.” – In my opinion, this book is interesting.</li></ul>You can encounter this preposition as part of&nbsp;<a href="https://promova.com/blog/conversational-spanish">active vocabulary</a> or set expressions. For example, para mí (for me), para siempre (forever), ¿para qué? (for what?). These examples will help you differentiate between the two prepositions more quickly.<h2>The Verbs With&nbsp;“Por” vs. “Para”</h2>Prepositions can be combined with other words to&nbsp;<a href="https://promova.com/blog/saber-or-conocer-in-spanish">form verbs</a>: they are easy to remember and will enrich your vocabulary. Here are some examples:<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Por</td><td>Para</td></tr><tr><td>Optar por – to choose something.Preocuparse por – to worry about something.Preguntar por – to ask about someone/something.</td><td>Trabajar para – to work for someone or something.Esforzarse para – to try hard for something.Ahorrar para – to save money for something.</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>The use of “por” and “para” with verbs follows the same rules: “por” when describing a reason or motive and&nbsp;“para” in Spanish for goals. For example, when we talk about payment, we always use “por,” and when discussing verbs of place or naming, we choose “para.”&nbsp;<h2>Upgrade your Spanish with Promova</h2>Native speakers intuitively understand the&nbsp;“por” and “para” differences in which preposition or verb form to use. You may find this task difficult when you encounter something like this for the first time.&nbsp;<a href="/app/spanish-language-learning-app">Promova language learning app</a> will prove to you that Spanish is interesting. Our one-step solution opens up vast learning opportunities:<ul><li>Guided Spanish course. Test your language level and study with our interactive tasks and exciting theory lessons.</li><li>Flexibility. Choose how much time you are ready to devote to practice and learning; even 15 minutes a day will be enough for you!</li><li>Other available languages. Add lessons in English, French, Chinese, and other languages to boost your knowledge even more! Guided courses are available for ten options.&nbsp;</li></ul>Downloading and using the app is completely free. You can try a paid subscription to unlock unique features and make your course even more fun!<h2>Conclusion</h2>Nothing will give you such results as practicing and actively using new words and rules.&nbsp;When to use por vs. para is a tricky question that often adds adventure to new learners. Find the positive in everything – the more complex the topic, the more you can practice!Our examples show the main difference between these two: reason and goal, route as a process, or “from point A to point B.” We hope this topic motivated you to try new things and achieve new goals on your path to learning Spanish!

Many people think the most challenging part of learning a language is taking the first steps and learning your first words. The beginning of the journey seems more exciting and intriguing, which gives you more motivation.

Mastering “Por” vs. “Para”: A Complete Guide for Spanish Learners

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Explora el mundo y entrena tu cerebro: ¿Por qué es importante aprender otro idioma?