Why There Are Some Easiest Languages to Learn?
How hard a language seems is often influenced by a few key factors, usually related to the language you already speak. For those who speak English, languages with similar origins, grammar, and vocabulary are typically the easiest languages to learn. Here are a few reasons why these languages are easier to learn than others:
- Shared Vocabulary: Languages with many cognates (words that look and mean the same in both languages) are easier to pick up.
- Grammar Simplicity: Languages with straightforward grammar rules reduce the learning curve.
- Pronunciation: Languages with familiar sounds or straightforward pronunciation are less intimidating.
- Cultural Exposure: Exposure through media, history, or travel can make a language feel more accessible.
What Are The Easiest Languages to Learn?
Here’s a list of 11 languages that are considered as the easiest languages to learn, especially for English speakers. Some of these also appear in the list of the most spoken language in the world for their widespread use and practical benefits.
Danish
For an English speaker, Danish is relatively among the easiest languages to learn compared to other languages, thanks to its shared roots, simple grammar rules, and familiar sentence structure. However, challenges in pronunciation and listening comprehension should be expected, especially at the beginning. With consistent practice, Danish becomes more accessible over time
Dutch
As another member of the Germanic language family, Dutch shares a significant amount of common ground with English, particularly regarding vocabulary and grammar principles. English speakers often find the sentence structure of Dutch quite clear and logical, which ultimately makes this language one of the easiest languages to learn.
Italian
Norwegian
Norwegian is another Germanic language with a simple grammar structure. It’s known for its logical rules, straightforward pronunciation, and close resemblance to English. An added bonus is that many Norwegian words are borrowed from English, making it a unique advantage for English speakers.
Portuguese
Portuguese, like Italian and Norwegian, is considered relatively approachable for English speakers, particularly for those who have some familiarity with Romance languages. Its grammar is slightly more complex than Italian, but its pronunciation is generally intuitive. Brazilian Portuguese, in particular, is the easiest language to learn for English speakers due to its more relaxed pronunciation.
Romanian
Romanian, while less commonly studied than other Romance languages, might surprise some as an easy language for English speakers. While it’s a Romance language, it also incorporates Slavic influences. However, its grammar is more regular than you might expect, and many words are derived from Latin, making them familiar to English speakers.
Spanish
Spanish’s simplicity, phonetic consistency, and global reach make it an excellent choice for English speakers. Its phonetic spelling, regular verb conjugations, and abundant learning resources make it highly accessible. Spanish is also widely spoken worldwide, providing numerous opportunities for practice.
Swedish
Like Norwegian and Danish, Swedish is classified within the North Germanic language group, a factor which influences its unique characteristics. The grammar of this language is perceived as being more simple and less intricate than that of English, making it appealing to many learners. Many English speakers also find Swedish melodic and enjoyable to learn.
French
French is one of the most spoken languages and a popular choice for English speakers. Despite its reputation for tricky pronunciation, it shares a vast amount of vocabulary with English, thanks to deep historical connections between the two languages.. Once you grasp the basics, it becomes easier to master.
Malaysian
Malaysian is really a fascinating option for English speakers. It uses a simple grammar structure, especially with no verb conjugations, plurals, or gendered nouns. The vocabulary, while not as closely related to English as some others, often features borrowed words, making the learning process much easier.
Indonesian
Like Malay, Indonesian is renowned for its simplicity, making it a very approachable language for English speakers. Not only using the Latin alphabet, coupled with straightforward pronunciation, it also has quite simple grammar rules. These qualities make it an attractive choice for English speakers diving into a new linguistic region.
How Long Does It Take to Learn These Languages?
Learning speeds differ significantly based on individual factors such as study habits or prior language experience. However, it’s estimated that the 11 of the easiest languages to learn, with very closely-related aspects to English, need around 480 – 600 hours (24 – 30 weeks full-time) for English speakers.
While personal preferences and dedications play a role, the above 11 are often regarded as the easiest languages for English speakers due to their simple grammar, as well as shared vocabulary and similar sentence structures with English. If you’re considering ease of pronunciation and global utility, they might also be better overall choices of other easiest languages to learn.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Learning a New Language
Whether you’re pursuing the easiest or hardest languages to learn, avoiding certain pitfalls can help you progress faster and more effectively. Here are some common mistakes and how to overcome them:
- Fear of Making Mistakes: Mistakes are a crucial part of the learning process. Instead of being discouraged by them, you need to take them as lessons and continue moving forward.
- Focusing Too Much on Grammar: While grammar is important, don’t get caught up in the details at the beginning. It’s better to switch your focus on talking and enriching your vocabulary first.
- Not Practicing Regularly: Making language learning a regular part of your day, rather than trying to cram it all in at once. Even just 15-20 minutes of daily practice can make a significant difference.
- Relying Solely on Apps: While language learning apps are excellent resources, it’s better not to rely on them completely. Interacting with native speakers, either in-person or online, can help enhance your fluency.
- Giving Up Too Soon: Language learning is a long-term process, not something you can achieve right away. There will be times when you feel frustrated or stuck, but consistent effort will help you reach your goal.
There isn’t a definitive answer to the question, “What is the easiest language to learn?”, as the best choice for you depends on your interests and goals. But starting with an accessible language can boost your confidence and make learning enjoyable. Start your journey today with GuruLango — an intuitive platform designed to help you master Spanish, French, or another beginner-friendly language with ease!
