Difficult Languages to Learn

Type: Vocabulary
Originally published on July 20, 2019 and last updated on August 7, 2023

Talking about the most difficult languages to learn offers English learners a stimulating conversation platform that aids in their language improvement. Discussing this subject allows learners to explore vocabulary related to linguistics, language acquisition and cultural diversity. Engaging in conversations about challenging languages promotes critical thinking, as learners analyze language structures and unique features.

Furthermore, it enhances their communication skills by expressing opinions, comparing language learning experiences and understanding different linguistic contexts. Conversations on the most difficult languages to learn empowers English learners to expand their language proficiency while gaining valuable insights into the fascinating world of language diversity.

 

Instructions:
Go through the vocabulary below with your students and ask them to try and use this vocabaulry where possible when discussing the different conversation questions.

About Most Difficult Languages

The topic of the most difficult languages to learn is a captivating exploration into the intricacies of human communication. Certain languages, renowned for their complex grammar, intricate writing systems, or unfamiliar phonetics, pose significant challenges to language learners. From tonal languages like Mandarin Chinese to agglutinative languages like Hungarian, delving into the difficulties of language acquisition provides insights into the diverse linguistic landscape.

Exploring the nuances of these languages fosters an appreciation for cultural diversity, showcases the resilience of language learners and encourages a deeper understanding of the complexities of human expression.

Useful Vocabulary

Try and use the following vocabulary when answering the question. Click to look up the definition in the dictionary

  • language (noun)
  • learn (verb)
  • pick up (phrasal verb)
  • native (adjective)
  • fluent (adjective)
  • study (verb)
  • rule (noun)

Conversation Questions

My Image
  • What languages do you think are the most difficult to learn?
  • What languages do you speak?
  • What are some factors that make certain languages more difficult to learn than others?
  • Why do you think some people find learning different languages easier than others?
  • Have you ever attempted to learn a language that you found particularly challenging? What were the specific difficulties you faced?
  • How does the difficulty level of a language impact its popularity among language learners?
  • What are some strategies or techniques that can help overcome challenges when learning a difficult language?
  • Is it worth investing time and effort in learning a difficult language, or are there more practical and beneficial options?
  • Should schools and language programs prioritize teaching widely spoken languages over more difficult ones?
  • Should language learners be encouraged to embrace the challenge of learning difficult languages as a means of personal growth and cultural understanding?
Gregory
This conversation topic was prepared by Gregory

Gregory is a qualified TEFL teacher who has been teaching English as a Foreign Language (ESL) for over a decade. He has taught in-person classes in Spain and to English learners around the world online.