If you’ve started learning a new language, you’ve probably come across terms like A1, A2, B1, or B2.
But what do these levels actually mean?
These levels come from the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), an internationally recognised system used to describe language ability. Whether you’re learning Luxembourgish, English, French, German, or any other European language, the CEFR provides a common standard that helps learners, teachers, schools, and employers understand what someone can do in a language.
What Is Level A1?
A1 is the first level of language proficiency.
At this stage, you are a beginner. You can communicate in very simple situations, provided the other person speaks slowly, clearly, and is willing to help.
An A1 learner is beginning to build the foundations of the language.
According to the CEFR, an A1 learner can:
- Understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases.
- Introduce themselves and others.
- Ask and answer simple questions about personal details such as:
- where they live
- where they come from
- their family
- their job
- things they own
- Talk about what they like and dislike.
- Interact in a simple way if the other person speaks slowly and clearly.
What Can You Do at A1?
Typical A1 learners can usually:
- Greet people and say goodbye.
- Introduce themselves.
- Talk about their nationality and profession.
- Give basic personal information.
- Count numbers and tell the time.
- Ask for directions.
- Order food and drinks.
- Go shopping for everyday items.
- Talk about daily routines using simple sentences.
- Understand simple signs and short notices.
Communication is still limited, but it is enough to manage many everyday situations.
How Many Words Do You Need?
The CEFR does not specify an exact number of words learners must know.
However, many language experts estimate that an A1 learner typically understands around 500–1,000 words, depending on the language and learning context.
What’s more important than the number of words is being able to use them to communicate effectively in everyday situations.
How Long Does It Take to Reach A1?
There is no fixed number of hours. The time depends on factors such as:
- your previous language-learning experience
- how closely related the language is to one you already know
- how often you practise
- the quality of instruction
- your motivation
Most adult learners reach A1 after consistent study combined with regular speaking practice.
Learn Luxembourgish A1 in Just 8 Weeks
If you’re ready to build a strong foundation in Luxembourgish, my A1 Foundation Self-Study Course is designed to help motivated adult learners achieve CEFR Level A1 in just 8 weeks.
The course includes 40 step-by-step video lessons, downloadable audio recordings, interactive quizzes, online flashcards, and practical exercises that help you develop all four language skills. By following the learning plan consistently and completing the weekly lessons, you’ll build the vocabulary, grammar, listening, and speaking confidence needed to master CEFR Level A1 and prepare for the next stage of your Luxembourgish journey.
Not sure whether you’re already at CEFR Level A1?
Start by taking our free A1 Luxembourgish Evaluation Test to assess your current level and identify the areas you need to improve before moving on to the next stage.
Final Thoughts
Reaching CEFR Level A1 is an important milestone. It means you’ve moved beyond knowing just a few words: you can now participate in simple, everyday conversations and handle some real-life situations with confidence.
Once you’ve mastered A1, the next step is CEFR Level A2, where you’ll expand your vocabulary, communicate more independently, and begin talking about your experiences, plans, and opinions in greater detail.
