Why We Should Learn a Foreign Language

Why We Should Learn a Foreign Language

In a world increasingly connected by global networks, the ability to communicate across cultural and linguistic boundaries has become indispensable. Learning a foreign language is not just a practical skill; it is an intellectual pursuit that can deepen our understanding of the world, enhance our cognitive abilities, and foster a sense of empathy toward others. As per the ancient philosophers and the contemporary thinkers, learning a new language allows us to add new layers to our identity and enrich our perception of the world.

One of the most influential figures in modern philosophy, Ludwig Wittgenstein, proposed that “The limits of my language are the limits of my world.” According to Wittgenstein, the structure of our language shapes the way we think and perceive reality. If this is the case, then by learning a foreign language, we are, in essence, broadening the scope of our thoughts. Through the lens of a new language, we begin to see the world not as a static entity but as a dynamic and multifaceted phenomenon. Each language has a unique way to perceive a given reality. A simple example from French can put across this idea. When in English you say “I am hungry”, in French you say “J’ai faim” which literally means I have hunger. In English, hunger is communicated as a state of self, whereas in French it more like an experience outside oneself. So, the experience and expression of a particular reality is so unique to the language that it can’t be seen or felt outside it. Hence, it becomes essential to learn the language to understand the mind of the person you are communicating with.

The same nuance can be seen in how politeness is perceived in different cultures. Politeness in every culture has a different interpretation. Not saying “Bonjour” to the French baker or the waiter before placing your order can put him off. Not adding “s’il vous plaȋt” while ordering a coffee can make you pay more in some French cafés.

The famous philosopher René Descartes said, “I think, therefore I am.” The way a person thinks shapes his way of being. How important then does it become to understand the language to enter the thought process of a person? Language learning thus allows to bridge the gaps in communication and avoid miscommunication as we learn to see the world through the eyes of others.

Once it happened in a French class, an anglophone student innocently said to the teacher “Je suis confortable” which meant for him “I am confortable”. Now the word “confortable” for a French native has a different usage. The French native thought of having some fun around the expression and went and sat on the student. Everybody was stunned and was wondering why did he do that. The French teacher then explained what it means to say “Je suis confortable” in French. In French, the word “confortable” can be used for furniture or a situation but never for a person. We can say in French “La chaise est confortable. J’aime bien m’y assoeir.” (The chair is comfortable. I like sitting on it.)

Learning a foreign language is not only enjoyable but has been in my experience therapeutical in nature. Many learners feel better emotionally after discovering a new language and finding a new perspective. Finding a new world through a language opens a new window which feels like getting out of a difficult situation in life and moving towards a bright future.

Moreover, Studies have shown that bilingual individuals tend to have better problem-solving skills and greater creativity. By learning a foreign language, we are engaging in a cognitive exercise that challenges our brains to think in new and innovative ways. Our brain expands new horizons and thereby discover new opportunities to bring success to our life.

Learning a foreign language is like an exercise for the brain. Studies have shown that bilingual people often have better memory, problem-solving skills, and even delayed onset of dementia. It enhances your ability to multitask, think creatively, and solve problems from different angles.

Moreover, being bilingual can increase your attention span and help you focus better. Switching between languages enables a person to understand different perspectives in different cultures. This mental agility can extend to personal and professional areas of your life.

Learning a foreign language is not merely an academic exercise or a pragmatic skill; it is an intellectual journey that broadens our horizons and deepens our understanding of the world. 

Why should you learn French?

First of all, it is a beautiful language. The French elegance much visible in the physical form is equally felt in the language. Learning French today opens opportunities in the field of Art, fashion, pharmaceutical, management studies, patisserie, bakery, etc. You name it and you find it in France and francophone countries. It is the language of diplomacy and one of the important languages of the United Nations. Learning French is almost mandatory for those planning to immigrate to Canada or those who wish to expand their opportunities in Canada.

The Language Academy wish to help you in this journey and make it easy and enjoyable!!! Thank you.