The Benefits of Learning to Speak German
German is spoken by 100 million people worldwide, and is a respected language in business, the sciences, and the arts. Did you know, for example, that German is the most used language on the Internet, after English?
There are many reasons and benefits to learning German. There are many cultural and historical reasons to visit Germany, and German speaking countries like Switzerland or Austria. Who hasn’t read about the Berlin Wall, or the Rhine. While those spring to most peoples’ minds first, just think about all the other superb events and locations that are associated with Germany
German is easier to learn for English speakers, due to the origins of each language, which share similar paths. Many English words derive from German, like Frankfurter, or professor. Because some words which mean something totally different appear the same, this can be a double-edged sword.
Book and media publishing are another of Germany’s great strengths. Germany publishes one out of every ten books in the world. Ranking third in the entire world for applications for patents, Germany is at the leading edge of technology and innovation. Despite their size relative to the USA, they are also the world’s largest exported most years.
The last paragraph makes the Germans seem like a hard-working, productive nation. And it is, but Germans also enjoy six weeks of vacation per year, and they are the largest spenders of tourist dollars. Accordingly, there is no part of the world where you will not come across German speakers.
The most widely used language in Europe is German. Without real justification, German is perceived as harder to learn than other languages, so if you master it there is a certain cachet to that. While this may have been true historically, language rule simplification in 1998 means it is no longer the case.
But at the same time, the Germans are a very precise race, and are less likely to show patience for bad pronunciation and lack of vocabulary – not because of any bad feeling, simply because they value precision and exactness very highly.
If all you think of German heritage is beer and Lederhosen, then you are far short of the mark. Germany has a vast and rich cultural heritage. Freud and Einstein were German. Many of the most respected classical composers throughout history came from Germany also. Studying the German language truly can give an insider view to German culture in its many aspects.
Learning German is easier today than even. After the Spelling Rule changes in 1998, the learning of German was much simplified. Second, there are many well-developed on line programs which make grasping basic German and then expanding it very achievable.
The author operates a language website, and you are invited to review his Learning German recommendations. Also, feel free to enroll for a FREE 6-Day German On Line Course.
