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Self Development

10 min

The truth behind language learning apps: do they really help you speak fluently?

By Natalie Brooks

Published on May 25, 2025

Fact checked by Daniel Kim, PhD

Fact checked by
Daniel Kim, PhD

In 2025, language learning apps are everywhere. Every other ad promises that you’ll “finally become fluent” – just by tapping your screen a few times a day.

But if you’ve actually tried learning a new language this way, you know the truth: most of these apps teach vocabulary, grammar rules, and some listening – but barely scratch the surface of real conversation.

That’s why I decided to take a closer look at one app that’s doing things differently – MakesYouFluent – and compare it to the standard apps most people are familiar with.

As a language coach, I know what it takes to reach fluency. And I also know how frustrating it can be when you study every day, but freeze up the moment someone talks to you.

So let’s see if MakesYouFluent can actually bridge the gap between textbook learning and real-world conversation.

App comparison: A look at typical language learning apps vs. MakesYouFluent

Before we get into the details, let’s look at what most language learning apps offer – and how MakesYouFluent approaches things differently.

What are most language learning apps really offering?

Most language apps follow a simple formula:

Teach a handful of words
Use flashcards and matching games
Track daily streaks
Offer grammar drills
Reward you for correct answers

These apps make you feel like you’re learning – and for beginners, they’re useful.

But here’s the problem: they don’t teach you how to actually speak.

You might memorize words, but when it’s time for a real conversation? You freeze.

That’s because most apps focus on recognition, not communication – and that’s where many learners hit a wall.

What exactly is MakesYouFluent and who is it for?

MakesYouFluent is an AI-powered language learning platform designed to help adults go beyond vocabulary drills and finally speak a new language with confidence.

Unlike traditional language apps that focus on memorization and gamified lessons, MakesYouFluent zeroes in on the real reason so many learners get stuck: a lack of real speaking practice.

It’s built for learners who want more than flashcards – people who want to hold conversations, travel with ease, advance professionally, or simply connect with others in another language.

MakesYouFluent addresses the most common roadblocks to fluency:

Fear of speaking
Limited pronunciation feedback
Lack of real-life conversation practice
Listening struggles in fast, native speech
Hesitation when forming original sentences

It starts with a short setup to determine your level and goals. From there, MakesYouFluent creates a personalized conversation journey that includes:

AI-powered tutor chats that simulate natural back-and-forth speaking
Roleplay scenarios based on travel, work, and daily life
Voice call simulations to train listening and response skills
Avatar conversations for variety in tone, accent, and personality
Daily speaking tasks with real-time pronunciation feedback

And the best part? No repetitive flashcards. No endless grammar drills. No pressure to get it perfect – just real practice that builds real fluency.

Where most language apps fall short

Most language learning apps do a decent job teaching the basics – common phrases, key vocabulary, and simple grammar. But once you’ve learned to say “Where is the bathroom?” or “I’d like a coffee,” the progress often stalls.

Here’s why:

There’s no real speaking practice – and typing isn’t the same as talking
The listening is slow, artificial, and doesn’t reflect natural conversation
You don’t get corrected when you make mistakes, so errors become habits
Most apps teach you what to say, but not how to say it confidently

If you’ve ever frozen in a real conversation despite “finishing” a language course, you’ve felt this gap firsthand.

How MakesYouFluent helps you actually speak

MakesYouFluent is built around one simple goal: helping you speak comfortably and naturally in your target language.

Here’s how it does that:

AI tutor chat – Talk to an intelligent tutor who responds naturally, corrects your grammar, and helps build your confidence
Roleplay scenarios – Practice real-life conversations (ordering food, checking into a hotel, going on a date)
Pronunciation evaluation – Get instant, detailed feedback on how you’re pronouncing words and phrases
Call mode – Simulates phone conversations, where you can’t rely on visual cues
Talk with avatars – Interact with different “people” and personalities, expanding your range of speaking styles
Describing & discussion tasks – Train your ability to express opinions, describe images, and hold longer conversations

You’re not just learning words – you’re learning how to use them in real conversation.

User experience: Gamified habits vs. real fluency training

Most language apps rely heavily on daily repetition – flashcards, streaks, multiple-choice quizzes, and tapping through vocabulary lists.

For some learners, this builds consistency. But for many, it quickly turns into a repetitive, passive routine that feels more like a game than real learning.

MakesYouFluent takes a different path: low-pressure, high-impact speaking practice that focuses on actual use, not just app activity. You’re guided through immersive conversation-based lessons, with built-in support to help you grow confident – not just consistent.

It’s a system you can actually stick with – especially if you’ve struggled to go from “studying” a language to speaking it with confidence.

Pricing and value: What do you get for your money?

When it comes to pricing, most language learning apps offer subscription plans that seem affordable – until you realize many features are locked behind paywalls or premium tiers. MakesYouFluent uses a clear, subscription-based model, but includes all features upfront.

Most language apps
Price: $10–$30/month

Basic access often includes only vocabulary drills and listening exercises. Speaking practice, conversation tools, or real-time feedback usually cost extra.

Perks:

Flashcards and grammar tips
Limited speaking tools
Premium features require upgrades
No refund guarantee in most cases

MakesYouFluent

Price: Transparent monthly or quarterly subscription (pricing varies by plan)

Every plan includes full access to all features: AI tutor, avatar conversations, call mode, pronunciation evaluation, and daily speaking tasks.

Perks:

All speaking tools included from day one
Real-time pronunciation feedback
Wide variety of interactive, immersive activities
Free trial and satisfaction guarantee available

While standard apps may look cheaper upfront, MakesYouFluent provides deeper value by focusing on the one thing that actually leads to fluency – speaking.

The moment of truth: Who delivers real fluency gains?

At the end of the day, vocabulary and grammar are just tools – fluency comes from using them in conversation.

Most language learning apps help you learn about the language. You’ll know how to conjugate verbs, recognize nouns, and pass a quiz. But when it comes time to actually speak – most users freeze.

MakesYouFluent closes that gap.

Users report feeling more confident, more prepared, and more natural in conversation within just a few weeks.
It’s not about memorizing 1,000 words – it’s about knowing what to say when someone actually talks to you.

And for that, you need real conversation practice – not more flashcards.

My final thoughts

If your goal is to casually dabble, memorize a few travel phrases, or pass a basic language test, then a traditional language app might do the trick.

But if your goal is real, spoken fluency, MakesYouFluent is in a different league.

It helps you speak clearly, confidently, and naturally – not just in the app, but in the real world. With immersive features like avatar chat, roleplay, and live pronunciation feedback, it’s more like a digital language coach than an app.

If you’re serious about finally speaking the language you’ve been studying, take the free trial and give it a go. It might just be the conversation partner your fluency journey’s been missing.

Conclusion:

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Written by

Emma Carter

I’m passionate about discovering the best ways to learn languages, using research and science to make it easier and more natural. I focus on how immersion, technology, and motivation can improve learning. For me, language is about connection, and I love helping others experience that through my work.