5 Most Studied Languages In The World: Crazy Reasons Why
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- Teacher Mei
The 5 most learned languages in the world and the reasons why people choose to learn these popular languages
There are numerous motives why people learn foreign languages, such as their family background, curiosity, or if they must relocate to a different country. Having knowledge of a foreign language has its advantages; it can increase one’s career opportunities and help them obtain their dream job. And wouldn’t it be enjoyable to learn about the world’s unique cultures? Here is a list of the world’s most studied languages and the reasons behind it.
1. The First Most Studied Language in the world – English
The first most learned language in the world is English which is studied by 1.5 billion people worldwide. It is employed in almost every country, and is used in banking, finance, Information technology, the hospitality industry, education, and even international diplomacy. Additionally, most billboards, advertisements and movies use English, which proves how influential it is.
There are many reasons why English is the first most studied language in the world. It can be easy to learn, especially if your native language is related to English. It increases your job prospects, makes traveling easier, is a universal language and grants access to the world’s best universities.
Letʻs have a closer look at the reasons why English is the first most learned language in the world:
- English can be easy to learn. People often worry that learning a new language can be challenging, but for those whose mother tongue is related to English, it can be quite straightforward. For instance, if you are from Europe, the UK, or neighboring countries, it is more manageable to learn English than for those living farther away, like in China or Germany. Although it can be daunting for inhabitants of these countries, there are plenty of English language learning tools available that make it both easy and enjoyable!
- It increases your job prospects. Learning English can open a world of opportunities in the job market. It is the language of commerce, so having the capability to speak this language can greatly broaden your options. Furthermore, when working for an international business, speaking English is usually required to ensure effective communication.
- It makes traveling anywhere in the world easier. Having knowledge of English is an advantage when going on trips around the world. It is widely known that most people have a basic understanding of the language, making it easier to book a hotel, or to order food in a restaurant. There is sure to be someone who can converse with you in English.
- It is a universal language. English has long been established as a global language, having spread throughout the world through a variety of means like war, missionary work, enslavement, and commerce. Consequently, it is practically certain that knowing English will be beneficial to you anywhere you go.
- It makes the world’s best colleges and universities accessible. English provides access to some of the most acclaimed universities on the planet! Outstanding institutions such as Cambridge, Oxford, Harvard, etc. are places you can attend if you can express yourself eloquently in the language.
2. The Second Most Studied Language in the world – French
French is an incredibly popular language, being the second most learned in the world, and is officially recognized in 29 countries. Even though the pronunciation can be difficult, it’s definitely worth it to be able to speak the language when you visit France, particularly Paris, to get the most out of your experience. The French language has a lovely sound and is often perceived to be romantic – it’s no wonder it is often referred to as the language of love! It even has potential for use in writing poems and music.
Here are some of the reasons why French is the second most learned language in the world:
- French is also a global language. It is second on the list after English; It is spoken on five continents, with over three hundred million fluent speakers. Another reason why people choose to study French, is that every country has integrated this language into their curriculum.
- It expands your job market. Learning French, together with your ability to speak English, is an unstoppable combo. The French language will increase your job pool in France at French companies and other French-speaking countries.
- It will expand your culture. France is known internationally for its cuisine, architecture, visual arts, fashion, and theater. Learning the French language paves the way for understanding and appreciating its culture because you will genuinely learn literature, songs, and films in original French.
- It is fun to learn. French is a beautiful language with an abundance of sounds and words that make it easy to pick up and therefor makes it fun to learn. There are many French learning Tools and Resources available on the market that make learning this language easy and fun, regardless of age.
- It is a basis for learning other languages. French will make learning other languages easier, like Portuguese, Romanian, Italian and Spanish.
3. The Third Most Studied Language in the world - Mandarin Chinese
About Thirty million people are learning Chinese currently. China has more than 1.3 billion citizens; therefore, an enormous amount of people speaks Chinese. Learning Chinese is not easy, but it has no grammar rules like the English language, so that’s a bonus! It is also ranked third in the list of most-learned languages.
Here is why Chinese is the third most studied language in the world:
- Around 1.3 billion people speak Chinese Mandarin. Which is 16% of the global population, and Chinese Mandarin is spoken in China and other countries like Mongolia, Philippines, Brunei, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Taiwan.
- It’s a great asset for your resume. Having Chinese language proficiency can be a great asset for your resume. Many employers make speaking Chinese a requirement for hiring, so learning the language can be a real advantage. Chinese language fluency is not common among applicants, so it can give you a distinct edge over the competition.
- It is essential for your career. If you haven’t noticed, China’s economy is growing at an overwhelming rate. The economy requires companies to hire professionals who understand Chinese. Since the growth rate is still going strong, adding Mandarin Chinese to the list of languages to learn is a good idea!
- It improves the brain. There are many cognitive benefits to studying a foreign language, and Chinese Mandarin has a particular advantage due to its use of certain areas of the brain that other languages do not. Fascinating, isn’t it?
4. The Fourth Most Studied Language in the world – Spanish
The Spanish language has around 14.5 million learners scattered all over the UK and the US, which makes it the fourth most popular learned language in the world. It is an official language in 21 countries with about 389 million fluent speakers. Learning Spanish is exciting and easy when you already know French or Italian. It is also simple compared to French.
Here are some of the reasons why Spanish is the third most studied language in the world:
- It is simple to learn. Spanish is easy to understand if you already know English. The tone doesn’t need emphasis compared to French or Asian languages. All you need is the drive to learn this new and exciting language.
- Amazing travel experiences. Spanish-speaking countries like Mexico, Cuba, Spain, and the Dominican Republic has some of the most amazing travelling destinations for tourist around the globe. You will have a heightened traveling experience if you already know the Spanish language. You can immerse yourself in their culture instead of sticking to the tourist spots just because you don’t know the lingo!
- You can study or work abroad. Learning Spanish can allow you to work in Spanish-speaking countries or get a degree in a Spanish-based university.
- It gives exposure to beautiful books, films, and music. Studying Spanish will give you access to wonderful books, movies, and music. You’ll gain knowledge of Spanish music, art, and literature; this will provide you with insight into the history and culture of the nation. That one beloved tune that you’re fond of – and it’s in Spanish? You’ll understand the lyrics, which will let you savor the music even more since you comprehend its origins.
5. The Fifth Most Studied Language in the world – German
You’ll be joining an impressive amount of people if you decide to learn German! With approximately 130 million speakers worldwide, German is the fifth most learned language on the planet. The native speakers are about 90 million, and virtually everybody in Germany speaks the language. German is the official language in 6 countries which includes Germany – of course – Belgium, Luxembourg, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, and Austria. Learning German could seem a bit overwhelming at the beginning, but if you get to engage with the language, you’ll soon find out that there are many similarities with English. For example, the German word “perfekt” is the same as “perfect” in English. Both languages have the same origin, so if you already have some knowledge of English, you’ll be able to pick up German faster!
Here is why the German language is the fifth most studied language in the world:
- It will give you an opportunity to work or study in Germany. Germany provides scholarship programs and job openings to people from all over the world. If you have prior experience in the country, either in studying or working, it will give you an advantage. Additionally, having knowledge of the language before applying will be beneficial.
- Exchange students’ program. Germany has agreements with various countries for student exchange programs. This means that you will have to learn German if you get into the program.
- It is good for business. Companies such as Mercedes Benz, Volkswagen, Adidas, and BMW are based in Germany, and are some of the most successful businesses around. Learning their language can help ensure that business operations run up to speed, with effective communication and strong relationships between the partners. This is great for the business and its success.
- It can establish a worldwide career. Having a command of the German language is an asset for a global career. It will open a lot of job possibilities in your own country and in other nations that use German. Companies that do business on an international scale will without doubt look for someone who is proficient in the language.
Conclusion
The benefits of learning a foreign language are immense, especially for these 5 most learned languages in the world. Learning English can make it easier to get a job, travel, and access the world’s best universities. Learning French can expand job prospects, culture, and make learning other languages easier, while learning Spanish is simple and can make amazing travel experiences possible. Chinese Mandarin is spoken by around 1.3 billion people and can be an amazing resume asset and even improve your brain like no other language! While German can lead to career opportunities in Germany, as well as worldwide. Learning a foreign language can be a great way to grow personally and professionally. It is important to immerse oneself in the language and practice regularly to master it.
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