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Khmer, spoken by over 15 million people, is the beating heart of Cambodia. Its unique script, consisting of 74 characters, is derived from ancient Indian systems and shares similarities with Thai. Its tonal language, on the other hand, is influenced by Sanskrit and Pali.
Though distinct, the Khmer language offers a fascinating glimpse not just into the rich history of the Khmer people but also their connection to South Asia. Thus, learning this language is more than just memorizing words — it’s an invitation to explore a vibrant culture.
That should be enticing enough, but where do you start? There’s no Duolingo Khmer course, nor is it found in other popular language-learning apps like Babbel, Mondly, or Pimsleur. Is learning Khmer on your phone even possible?
Well, I’m here to tell you that yes, there are apps that can help you learn Khmer, whether you’re a newbie or just looking for refresher lessons. Read on!
Why is Khmer not on Duolingo?
Based on monthly installs and active users, Duolingo is the most popular language-learning platform today. And it’s not at all surprising given how the app revolutionized learning gamification.
Whether you’re a beginner or looking to enhance your language skills, Duolingo provides bite-sized lessons that cover reading, writing, listening, and speaking. It helps you stay motivated through daily and monthly quests and challenges, and sparks competition through its leaderboard feature.
The app currently offers lessons in 40 languages. Unfortunately, that doesn’t languages such as Tagalog, Bengali, Lithuanian, and more. And Khmer, despite being a fascinating and important language, isn’t offered on Duolingo.
Duolingo hasn’t addressed this so I can only make assumptions as to why Khmer isn’t on the app. First off, Duolingo obviously prioritizes languages with a larger user base and those with high demand.
Secondly, Khmer’s complicated script is probably challenging for Duolingo to incorporate into their existing framework. It certainly requires a lot of resources and language experts.
Which leads me to the last possible reason. Duolingo used to collaborate with volunteers to create courses. With the volunteer contributor program and Duolingo Incubator now obsolete, there’s no telling when a Khmer course will appear on the app.
There are Duolingo alternatives though, and they’re all worth diving into if you’re serious about learning Khmer.
The best Duolingo alternatives
One of the quickest ways to start learning Bengali is by downloading an app on your phone. Here are three of my favorites:
1. uTalk
Need to order food on your trip? Master key phrases for “Where’s the bathroom?” or “I’ll have…” within minutes with uTalk!
What’s great with this app is that it prioritizes practical vocabulary, equipping you with essential words and phrases for everyday situations. The course covers over 2,500 words and phrases across 60+ topics — enough to hold conversations with native speakers.
What’s more, learning isn’t a drag on uTalk. Fun quizzes, engaging games, and vibrant images keep you hooked. You can even record yourself speaking and compare it with the pronunciation of native speakers, perfecting your Khmer accent with each practice session.
Key features:
- Playful lessons and exercises
- Teaches essential vocabulary
- Speaking drills to improve your pronunciation
2. LingChat
Finding a Khmer practice partner isn’t always easy, but LingChat solves that problem with AI characters tailored to any age or skill level.
Instead of boring drills, you’ll dive into role-playing games that simulate real-life situations—like navigating a market or chatting with locals. You can even create custom scenarios to focus on exactly what you need.
As you talk, the app provides real-time grammar corrections and instant tips to polish your speaking. To ensure your new vocabulary actually sticks, it uses spaced repetition and flashcards for a solid review.
Key features:
- Practice Khmer through realistic simulations (or create custom scenarios)
- Immediate feedback on grammar and pronunciation
- Built-in flashcards and spaced repetition to lock in new words
3. Talkpal
Ditch the repetitive flashcards and start chatting your way to Khmer fluency with Talkpal. This GPT-powered AI tutor focuses on immersive, real-time conversations that develop your speaking confidence.
But this app doesn’t just address your speaking skills. It also covers reading and listening, throwing you into interactive scenarios where you receive instant feedback on your grammar and comprehension.
The app keeps things lively with game-like elements and insightful questions that challenge your thinking. You can switch between various modes—like Roleplay, Debates, or Photo Mode—allowing you to practice Khmer in practical, everyday contexts or dive into deep, creative topics at your own pace.
Key features:
- You can switch between different learning modes
- Realistic dialogue scenarios
- Real-time corrections
Other great resources to learn Khmer
Khmer is not an easy language to learn, especially for English speakers. While the above apps can give you the skills you previously didn’t have, fluency requires more practice and a variety of tools.
Here are some of my favorites:
italki: Connect with native speakers and learn from them! On iTalki, you can find experienced Khmer teachers, sign up for lessons that meet your budget and schedule, and tailor lessons to your goals.
Preply: For more Khmer tutors, check out Preply. Here, you’ll find native-speaking teachers who can teach you not just the language but also give you lots of insights into Khmer culture.
Learn Khmer: Start Speaking Today: This accessible guidebook by Languages World promises a smooth journey into Khmer fluency. Tailored for absolute beginners, it adopts a practical and conversational approach, breaks down complex grammar into manageable bits, and prioritizes spoken fluency from the get-go.
Cambodian Phrasebook: Master everyday Cambodian with this phrasebook covering dining, shopping, travel, and lodging. Cultural tips and Khmer script are included for an immersive experience.
Khmer Dictionary: Developed by the Royal Academy of Cambodia’s National Council of Khmer Language itself, this app offers not just word definitions but also pronunciation guides, usage examples, and even categorization by word type. Ideal for intermediate and advanced learners.
Tandem: Forget solo learning! Tandem connects you with native Khmer speakers eager to exchange languages and cultures. You can chat, record voice messages, or even video call your language partners, practicing everyday Khmer in real-time conversations.
Udemy: This site offers a variety of video-based courses where independent instructors break Khmer down into manageable lessons. It’s ideal if you want a structured, self-paced approach covering everything from the unique script to essential vocabulary and pronunciation tips. The courses often go on sale, too!
Simply Learn Khmer: This app presents bite-sized lessons brimming with essential vocabulary and phrases, categorized for various travel and everyday situations. Whether you want to order food, ask for directions, or simply greet locals, this app equips you with the tools to navigate Cambodia with confidence.
Khmer Lesson: This YouTube channel caters to foreigners who want to learn the Cambodian language. You’ll find a variety of short videos teaching vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, folktales, and more!
Conclusion
No Khmer on Duolingo? No worries! With the resources I listed above, you can easily tackle Khmer and go from ជំរាបសួរ (hello) and អរគុណ (thank you) to deeper conversations.
Happy learning!
Duolingo alternatives for learning Khmer – Pin it!
