1. Another drawback is that Learning a foreign language is challenging. Many languages have different systems of grammar, and some languages use a completely different alphabet and different sounds. And learning thousands of new vocabulary words isn't easy, either.
2. Learning a foreign language can be expensive, especially if you take college courses or pay for private tutoring. It's possible to learn a foreign language from books or computer programs, which often cost less, but practicing speaking with others usually makes learning more fun and effective.
3. Benefits of learning a language
4. Use it or lose it. How many times have you heard that phrase? It is a simple fact – the more the brain is used, the better its functions work. A new language requires not only familiarity with vocabulary and rules, but also being able to recall and apply this knowledge. Learning a language gives your memory a good work out in the brain gym. This means that multilingual people have brains that are more exercised and quick to recall names, directions, facts, and figures. According to a study from the University of Chicago, decision-making ability becomes an easier process for multilingual people. Aside from the rules and vocabulary that go with learning a foreign language, there are nuances and regional expressions that a student of language frequently judges for appropriateness and hidden meanings. Multilinguals are more confident in their decision-making choices as a result of practice, practice, practice!
5. Drawbacks of learning languages
6. The differences between two cultures are reflected perfectly in their languages. Mastering the nuances of a language means really being able to understand people who (more than likely) grew up with an entirely different set of values and beliefs. You have to open yourself up to these differences. Those contrasting values and beliefs can manifest in a variety of ways. Taking a look at common expressions and idioms gives you a glimpse into what a society deems important. For example, just looking at all the Chinese idioms dealing with family demonstrates the value they place on this relationship and tells us a little about the family construct and potential dynamics. Or if you were learning English, you can find lots of examples of the historical and cultural values reflected in typical English expressions and idioms by just listening to an episode of NPR’s radio program “A Way with Words.”
7. Simply put, language allows us to express our thoughts and feelings, it allows us to communicate and share knowledge with one another. You won’t fully master a language unless you understand the culture, just like you’ll never fully understand a culture until you’ve immersed yourself in a study of their language. This is because language is constantly in flux and largely dependent on the ever-evolving views, values and customs of its speakers.
8. How does language affect our culture?
9. Language helps express our feelings, desires, and queries to the world around us. ... In order to travel the world, whether for business or pleasure, a desire and willingness to adapt to new cultures and methods is necessary. Adaptability, of course, includes the ability to communicate with new people in various dialects.
