The best 6 languages to learn as an adult

Has the idea of learning a new language always appealed to you? Maybe you watch a lot of K-dramas and wish you understood the language instead of reading the subtitles. Or maybe you have dreams to work abroad but the language barrier prevents you from even applying for jobs.

These six languages we’ve outlined below are among the best to learn as they are the most useful in terms of business, travel, networking, and entertainment.

Keep reading to find out which are the best and most useful languages to learn as an adult so you can align your goals and ambitions with whichever one you choose to pick up.

These are the best 6 languages that gives you a global edge:

Japanese

As one of the most popular languages to learn in the business world, picking up Japanese is a great way to increase your value and help you stand out in competitive markets.

Not only does it open doors globally, Japan is a technologically advanced country with many exciting new frontiers to explore for those who speak the language. As it’s not one of the easiest languages to learn for English speakers, it will also challenge you mentally and show potential employers that you have valuable skills such as resilience and commitment to personal growth.

Japan is also a frontrunner in entertainment and birthplace of many established and well-known brands such as Hello Kitty and Totoro. If you’re a fan of all things Japanese, learning the language can help you explore more of the fascinating culture.

Korean

With the dominance of K-pop, K-drama, K-beauty, and more - the Korean language has become more popular worldwide. Surprisingly, Korean is not a very difficult language to learn. In fact, the Korean alphabet, Hangul, was intentionally crafted to be easy, [1] and the writing system is one of the simplest in the world.

With South Korea also becoming a major power player in the business world in the recent decade, learning Korean can also future proof your career and give you a global edge. You also open up pathways for career opportunities when you know the language, with multiple job openings worldwide for translators, teachers, customer service, and jobs in the entertainment industry.

German

Another country that has paved the way for technology and innovation, Germany is a progressive country that attracts people from all over the world. In fact, it consistently ranks high [2] on quality of life indexes due to social, economic and political stability, natural surroundings, and is a culture that values diversity and inclusion.

While you don’t necessarily have to be fluent in German to work there, it will definitely make it easier. Many employers and citizens speak English, but knowing the language will allow you to understand the customs and traditions while immersing yourself fully in the culture.

For English speakers, German is also not too difficult to learn as it’s also a phonetic language with the same system. It’s also a useful one to learn as one of the most spoken languages in the world.

Italian

For those who are drawn to European culture and languages, learning Italian is known to be a great starting point. Having a good knowledge of Italian helps you understand other Romanic languages such as Portuguese, French, or Spanish.

So if you’ve got an European trip coming up or wish to study or work in the continent, consider learning Italian to give you a head start to understanding the culture and customs. On the flip side, if you already have some knowledge of Portuguese, Spanish, French, or English, it will be easier to learn Italian as well, because all these languages have similar vocabulary and grammatical rules.

For history and travel buffs, learning Italian will also be useful as you soak up the rich culture. More than 60 percent of the world’s most treasured artworks and many famous heritage sites are located in Italy. Plus, the country is a world leader in advanced technologies, machine manufacturing, culinary arts, fashion, and more!

Hindi

Hindi is another language that is useful for global business and networking. It is the official language of India, the second-most populous nation in the world after China, and is the most widely spoken language in South Asia.

India is home to a number of fast-growing industries and market leaders such as FMCG, technology, manufacturing, and more. Knowing the language gives you an edge in the competitive job market if you plan to live and work there.

On the entertainment side, India’s Bollywood is well-known for its enigmatic film and music stars and thriving industry. If you love Shah Rukh Khan movies, master the language to understand the nuances of the culture more as some things just don’t translate fully.

Other benefits of learning Hindi include ease of traveling in the country, and connecting with the spiritual aspect of Indian culture as many meditative chants are in Hindi. Be prepared for the challenge though, as Hindi is one of the most difficult languages to learn.

Arabic

Another language that’s gaining prominence in the business world is Arabic. While there are many English speakers and expats in these cities, knowledge of Arabic and the culture can pave the way for you in fields such as diplomacy, journalism, business, healthcare and more.

Looking to work overseas in booming cities such as Dubai and Qatar, or in multinational companies? Having a grasp on the Arabic language helps you build important connections in Middle Eastern nations, not to mention puts you at high demand when it comes to employability.

When it comes to learning Arabic for those who have no basic knowledge, we won’t lie to you - it’s not going to be easy. It’s one of the most difficult languages to learn, but that is what also makes it challenging and gives you an edge over the competition. After all, learning a language also improves your memory [3] and cognitive function.

Looking for language courses in Singapore? Contact us to let us know what you’re looking for and we’ll be in touch as soon as possible.

References:

[1] S.C.S, 2013. How was Hangul invented? Retrieved from The Economist (https://www.economist.com/the-economist-explains/2013/10/08/how-was-hangul-invented)

[2] Quality of Life in Germany Index. Retrieved from Numbeo (https://www.numbeo.com/quality-of-life/country_result.jsp?country=Germany_

[3] Hidaya Aliouche, 2022. The Impact of Learning a Language on Brain Health. Retrieved from News Medical Life Sciences (https://www.news-medical.net/health/The-Impact-of-Learning-a-Language-on-Brain-Health.aspx)