When do we become unable to learn a language like a native speaker? (2018)
&gt; <i>... most of us will not be able to master grammar like a native speaker — or probably sound like one either.</i><p>I disagree with the &quot;mastering grammar&quot; point. I think that many native speakers are less than perfect in terms of mastery of their language grammar, especially in various tricky &#x2F; special cases. Native speakers&#x27; ability to use correct grammar stems from combination of language environment immersion and some formal teaching in school. However, I believe that the immersion plays lesser role in grammar mastery and larger role in fluency (due to &quot;thinking in native language&quot;). On the other hand, formal grammar of any language is a relatively limited set of rules, so, given appropriate determination, time and effort, it could be mastered to a native or near-native level regardless of the learner&#x27;s age. In my opinion, the most difficult aspects of learning a foreign language are richness of vocabulary, idioms, fluency in embedding cultural references, and accent-free pronunciation.