Posted by Learning a new language may lead to many interesting new experiences and possibilities, including chances to meet new people and learn about other cultures, advance your profession, and study and work overseas.
But how do you pick which language to devote your time to learning when there are so many options?
The truth is that certain languages will be simpler for competent English speakers to become proficient in, even if every foreign language has its own set of difficulties.
Why? The similarities between English and other closely related languages make it simpler for English speakers to learn them. Examples include sentence structure, vocabulary, tones and sounds, and writing systems.
Your ability to acquire a language will thus rely on both the language itself and the languages you are currently proficient in or are aware of. Remember that various variables might affect how long it takes you to learn a language.
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Here are the top 7 languages that English speakers can learn the quickest. But you might use this as a broad direction. We’ve ranked them from the simpler to the somewhat more demanding operating statistics from the Foreign Service Institute (FSI).
#1. Dutch
Dutch and English have many similarities. There are numerous instances when it and English are comparable, particularly in terms of vocabulary. For example, the English and Dutch versions of the words “plastic,” “water,” and “light” are the same. The pronunciation of this language will probably be the hardest part for English speakers.
The dialect in Flanders is Flemish, the same as Dutch in Belgium. Dutch people can comprehend Flemish very readily, and vice versa, despite certain variances in pronunciation, vocabulary, and idioms.
Around 24 million people speak Dutch globally, so learning it is a good idea if you want to live and work in the Netherlands or another country where it is an official language, such as Suriname, Aruba, or the Dutch Antilles.
Why You Should Study Dutch
Studying Dutch to Benefit (more) Independence
The Netherlands is where you can speak English practically anywhere (about 86% of the population does). However, it’s helpful to learn some actual words so you can get about in regions where English is not spoken. What would you do if everyone had their English memory erased through brainwashing? Even if that’s improbable, you get the idea. If you want assistance, some individuals may be unable to assist you or adequately inquire about what you require. We assure you that a little Dutch goes a long way.
Acquiring Dutch Skills Is Practical
There are a few pragmatic reasons to learn some basic words and phrases in addition to being able to live your new life relatively freely. For instance, understanding a little of the Dutch language makes it much simpler to comprehend ingredient lists, newspaper articles, and traffic signs.
You’ll be able to navigate a store on your own and won’t get lost! Additionally, it simplifies administrative tasks like filing taxes or requesting certain allowances. You won’t need a third-party interpreter, and you’ll feel proud of moving one step closer to being an adult.
One Language, Multiple Nations
Speaking Dutch is not limited to the Netherlands. Even while Dutch isn’t as widely spoken as Spanish, you may now travel to Belgium, Suriname, and the Caribbean, notably Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten, with confidence if you speak it.
#2. Norwegian
Norwegian, sometimes known as “Norsk,” is a Germanic language, making it simpler for English speakers to learn than other Germanic languages. The lexicon overlaps with English quite a bit, and unlike certain Germanic languages, most words in Norwegian are quite easy to pronounce.
Although not the same, the sentence structure is mostly similar to English. Han Kommer fra Norge, for instance, means “He comes from Norway.”
About 5 million people, mostly in Norway, speak Norwegian. It may be an interesting language because of its Old Norse origins, and becoming fluent in Norwegian will provide you more access to the nation’s rich literary culture and mythology.
The Benefits Of Learning Norwegian
Learning Norwegian simplifies life.
Learning Norwegian will benefit you daily if you live there. Google Translate cannot always translate Norwegian explanations. If you speak the language, you can read signs, bulletins, and official correspondence without aid. Norway makes making friends and having a social life easy. It also boosts employment applications. Yes, knowing Norwegian is useful.
A good job requires Norwegian!
Indeed. You can find a job if you’re not ambitious. Your odds are slim. Employers favor language speakers. They want team players and lunchtime chatters. If you’re going to remain in Norway, learn Norwegian as soon as possible.
Norway’s culture
Language may be a nation’s most significant cultural aspect.
The Norwegian language reflects Norwegian culture and philosophy. This is seen in literature, movies, and human interaction. Many Norwegian words and idioms cannot be translated. Culture, lifestyle, weather, and terrain may influence them. “Hyttetur” means “cabin excursion,” “ever” means “weather to be outside,” and “fjelltur” means “mountain trek.”
#3. Spanish
Since many English terms have Latin roots, even though Spanish is a Romance language rather than a Germanic one, English speakers may learn it very quickly. The Spanish alphabet is identical to the English alphabet, and many words are pronounced exactly as they are written.
The fact that Spanish’s sentence structure is not just comparable to English’s but also less rigid than English’s means that there are often several ways to construct a sentence, which is another advantage for English speakers.
Learning Spanish online is a fantastic option if you’re trying to pick up a language that will improve your travel experiences and increase your employment. With around 534 million speakers worldwide, it is one of the most commonly spoken languages. To get started, download our free eBook on the fundamentals of Spanish.
The Benefits of Learning Spanish
Travel Possibilities
If a traveler learns a second language, like Spanish, they may also get more out of their journey. Speaking Spanish when traveling in Latin American nations enhances the experience.
Cultural Possibilities
The ability to speak Spanish opens up a whole new world of culture for English speakers. Students may learn more about Spanish-speaking populations in the United States, Latin America, and Spain.
Resume Enhancer
An ability to communicate well in a second language, especially Spanish, may also do wonders for your resume. Employers prefer employees who can communicate effectively in various ways and speak Spanish fluently. With this additional talent represented on their CV, bilingual employees could also be able to demand greater pay.
#4. Portuguese
Approximately 234 million people speak Portuguese worldwide. It is a very helpful second language under your belt since it is the official language of six African nations, including Angola, Cape Verde, Mozambique, Portugal, and Brazil.
Similar to Spanish, Portuguese is the Latin language with the same alphabet as English, making it easier for English speakers to learn.
One thing to bear in mind is that European and Brazilian Portuguese vary significantly from one another. Depending on the Portuguese dialect you are studying, everything from the pronunciation to the vocabulary might change. Naturally, depending where and how you want to utilize it will determine which one you should concentrate on.
The Benefits of Learning Portuguese
There Are A Ton Of People Who Speak Portuguese.
Many people are sometimes surprised to learn that Portuguese is almost as extensively spoken internationally as French in terms of speakers!
Why do you know so many individuals studying French but few studying Portuguese?
Since you’re not mistaken, Portuguese is often referred to as the romance language’s ugly duckling.
The Portuguese Have A Significant African background.
The importance of studying Brazilian Portuguese is strongly felt by many of my pupils who are of African origin.
The fundamental cause of the phonetic variations between Brazilian Portuguese and European Portuguese is the African influence, which is evident in our lexicon and coexists with local Brazilian impact.
It Could Become Required.
You may not need to study Portuguese if you go to Portugal since English is widely spoken there.
Of course, you won’t have as much fun as you would have had at least a bit of Portuguese, but you won’t likely feel left out for not learning the local tongue.
However, relatively few Brazilians can speak a second language. If you don’t learn at least some Portuguese, you could be reduced to using your mime skills.
#5. Italian
Italian is another Romance language that English people may easily learn. Italian terms are often used in English, so you probably already know more of them than you realize, from those that have to do with food, like “gelato” and “panini,” to others like “diva,” “solo,” “finale,” or “fiasco.”
Most of the time, Italian and English sentence structures are similar, and thankfully, the pronunciation is pretty reasonable. After getting a firm grasp on the basics, you can read and pronounce most words properly. Get a jump start by downloading our short, graphic eBook on Italian fundamentals.
The major language of almost 64 million people, Italian is nevertheless extensively spoken outside of Italy, particularly in Switzerland, Croatia, Slovenia, and even Argentina, while not being as popular as Spanish or Portuguese.
Reasons For Learning Italian That Everyone Should
It’s A Wonderful Place To Go To.
After France and Spain, Italy is the third most popular destination in Europe and one of the most visited nations. Every year, millions of visitors visit the nation, attracted by its rich history and stunning surroundings.
Italy is home to 60% of the world’s most significant art pieces. The nation also has the most UNESCO World Heritage sites (58). The historical wonders of Italy, such as Pompeii, the Eolian Islands, and the Dolomites, are worth seeing.
Its Cuisine Is Unparalleled.
Even the names of the foods—pasta, pizza, tiramisu, and mozzarella—make me hungry! Italian specialties are well-known around the globe and play a significant role in the nation’s identity.
Understanding the language is a great benefit if you truly want to sample the food and learn about some lesser-known delicacies; otherwise, it could be difficult to distinguish between your osso-buco, farinata, and involtini. Deciphering Italian menus and savoring your favorite foods will be made easier for you if you learn the language.
#6. Romanian
You may not have anticipated seeing Romanian on this list. Romanian is a Romance language, using many of the same terminologies as Italian, Spanish, and French while surrounded by Slavic nations.
La revedere, for example, is comparable to the Italian “Arrividerci,” while “Scuză-mă,” which is used to apologize, is similar to the French “Excusez-Moi.” Additionally, since it is a phonetic language, most words are written exactly as they are spoken.
Of course, this language has a few more challenging facets, such as grammatical variations and letters with “diacritics.” But generally, learning Romanian, which is mostly spoken in Romania and Moldova and is spoken by over 30 million people, is surprisingly simple.
Reasons to Learn Romanian
a route to further Romance language
Since Romania is located in Eastern Europe, many people believe Romanian belongs to the Slavic language family. It’s a linguistic myth, however.
It is an Indo-European language with a strong Latin influence from the Balkan Romance family, often known as Daco-Romance.
Of fact, the Romanian language also has certain non-Latin components.
The present Romanian language, for instance, has numerous Greek and Slavic vocabulary but is Latin.
In The Interest Of Music
Who doesn’t want to listen to evocative music?
Do you want to understand what Inna and Alexandra Stan are singing in Romanian?
You’ll want to get up and dance since the tunes are so melodic and captivating.
Although, at first, you may not comprehend the songs, they will educate you about the nation, culture, and traditions.
Hip-hop, techno, and pop artists like Iris, Transylvania Phoenix, Compact, etc., are all well-known in Romania.
These are some historical examples, although Romania continues to generate many creative musicians.
Make Your Journey More Pleasurable
Fish-shaped Romania is a beautiful nation with a diverse range of vibrant cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Constanța, Craiova, Galaţi, Iași, Timișoara, medieval castles, peaceful countryside, towering hills, lush woods, and natural sceneries.
Romania is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The culture and inventions of the past and present coexist in Romanian society. A wonderful fusion of distinct Turkish, Slavic, and French elements creates a vibrant life outside.
#7. German
German is a Germanic language, as its name implies. It has many things in common with English, including a similar alphabet, sentence structure, and vocabulary. For instance, terms like “Wasser,” “Apfel,” and “Fisch,” which are often used in German, are quite close to their English counterparts. Download our free eBook on the fundamentals of German to discover the parallels.
The pronunciation of German is one feature that English speakers sometimes find challenging, particularly with lengthy compound terms like “Fremdschämen” (cringe) and “Verschlimmbessern” (to worsen or exacerbate).
German is a very valuable language, albeit it may not be as simple for English speakers to master as Dutch or Norwegian. More than 100 million people speak German across Central Europe, notably in Austria, Switzerland, and Luxembourg.
Reasons For Learning German
Getting A Job
There are several overseas sites for German businesses. Your likelihood of landing a job with a German firm in your nation will be increased if you speak German well.
Studying
Germany is a popular destination for engineering, medicine, or philosophy students. Employers throughout the globe place high importance on degrees from German universities.
Research
Want to work as a marine biologist or a quantum physicist? The second most significant language in science is German. In many scientific domains, having a basic command of the German language is advantageous.
Conclusion
When learning new languages, English speakers often have the edge over speakers of other languages, whether you desire to acquire a foreign language for enjoyment, personal enrichment, or professional growth. This is because English has spread around the globe, and the majority of language instruction is directed toward English speakers.
Nevertheless, certain languages are still simpler for English speakers to learn than others. This may be attributed to several things, such as comparative grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.
