LANGUAGES
On this page, you can find out about WHY you should study one of the languages we offer at School of Foreign Languages Modern Languages Unit.

Why study Armenian?
Here are some reasons why someone might choose to study Armenian:
-
Language Diversity: Armenian is an Indo-European language with its own distinct branch within the Indo-European family. Studying Armenian provides exposure to linguistic diversity and different language families, enhancing your overall linguistic knowledge.
-
Cultural Understanding: Armenia has a rich cultural heritage, and studying the Armenian language can provide insights into the history, literature, art, and traditions of the Armenian people. Learning about the culture of a minority group within Turkey can also foster cultural understanding and tolerance.
-
Historical Significance: Turkey and Armenia have a complex history. Studying Armenian in Turkey can help individuals gain a deeper understanding of this historical context and its impact on both countries.
-
Academic Research: If you are conducting academic research related to Armenia or its diaspora, learning the Armenian language can be crucial for accessing primary sources, archives, and conducting interviews with Armenian speakers living in Turkey.
-
Career Opportunities: Learning Armenian can be beneficial for individuals interested in business or trade relations between Turkey and Armenia or for those looking to engage with the Armenian diaspora in Turkey, which includes businesses and organizations.
-
Community Engagement: In some regions of Turkey, there are Armenian communities, and learning the language can help individuals engage with these communities, participate in cultural events, and build connections.

Why study Chinese?
Studying Chinese, specifically Mandarin, can offer a wide range of personal, professional, and cultural benefits. Here are some compelling reasons to consider studying Chinese:
-
Tonal Language Proficiency: Chinese is a tonal language, which means that the meaning of a word can change based on the pitch or tone in which it's pronounced. Learning Chinese sharpens your ability to perceive and produce different tones, enhancing your ear for pitch and tone distinctions.
-
Character Recognition and Stroke Order: Chinese characters are logographic, meaning that each character represents a word or morpheme. Learning to recognize and write Chinese characters can boost your visual memory, pattern recognition skills, and fine motor coordination.
-
Grammar Structure and Syntax: Chinese has a different sentence structure and syntax compared to English, which can broaden your understanding of different grammatical systems. Learning Chinese can make you more aware of word order, particles, and sentence structure.
-
Multilingualism: Learning Chinese can be a gateway to multilingualism. Once you have experience learning and mastering one non-Latin script language, it becomes easier to learn other languages with different scripts and linguistic structures.
-
Global Economic Significance: China has one of the world's largest economies, and its influence in international trade and finance continues to grow. Learning Chinese can open up career opportunities in various fields, especially if you're interested in business, finance, or international relations.
-
Career Opportunities: Many multinational companies seek employees who can communicate in Chinese, as they aim to tap into the Chinese market. Having Chinese language skills can give you a competitive edge in the job market.
-
Cultural Enrichment: China boasts a rich and diverse culture with a history dating back thousands of years. Learning Chinese can provide insights into Chinese literature, philosophy, art, and traditions. It can also enhance your appreciation for Chinese cinema, music, and cuisine.
-
Intellectual Challenge: Mandarin Chinese is considered one of the most challenging languages for English speakers to learn, making it a rewarding intellectual pursuit. Overcoming the complexities of the language can boost cognitive skills and problem-solving abilities.
-
Diplomacy and International Relations: If you're interested in diplomacy or international relations, proficiency in Chinese can be invaluable. It allows you to engage in meaningful dialogues and negotiations with Chinese officials and diplomats.
It's important to note that learning Chinese can be a significant undertaking due to its complexity, especially if it's your first time learning a non-Latin script language. However, the benefits can be substantial, both in terms of personal growth and future opportunities. Whether you choose to study Chinese for practical reasons or for a deeper understanding of its culture, it can be a rewarding and valuable endeavor.

Why study French?
Studying the French language can be a rewarding and valuable endeavor for several reasons:
-
Multilingual Skills: Learning French can make it easier to learn other Romance languages like Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese because they share similar grammar and vocabulary. This can be advantageous if you have an interest in multiple languages.
-
Diversity: French is a language that spans a wide range of dialects and accents. Learning it can introduce you to the linguistic diversity within the French-speaking world, from the metropolitan French spoken in Paris to the Creole languages of the Caribbean.
-
Grammar Understanding: French has a complex and well-structured grammar, including verb conjugations, gendered nouns, and intricate sentence structures. Mastering these aspects of French can lead to a deeper understanding of linguistic principles and improve your grasp of grammar in general.
-
Phonetic Awareness: French has a diverse range of vowel and consonant sounds, including nasal vowels and unique pronunciation patterns. Learning French can enhance your phonetic awareness and help you recognize and reproduce a wider range of sounds in different languages.
-
Global Influence: French is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, with over 220 million speakers across all continents. It is an official language in 29 countries, including France, Canada, Belgium, Switzerland, and several African nations. Learning French can open doors to communication and opportunities in these regions.
-
International Business: France has one of the largest economies in the world, and French is a key language in international business and diplomacy. Learning French can enhance your career prospects, especially if you're interested in fields like fashion, culinary arts, hospitality, or international relations.
-
Cultural Enrichment: French culture has had a significant impact on art, literature, philosophy, and cinema. Learning the language allows you to access a rich cultural heritage, including the works of famous authors like Victor Hugo, Albert Camus, and Marcel Proust, as well as classic films by directors like François Truffaut and Jean-Luc Godard.
-
Academic Opportunities: French is often required or recommended for academic programs in fields like linguistics, literature, history, and international studies. Many universities offer scholarships and exchange programs for students who study French.
-
Career Opportunities: Multinational companies and organizations often seek employees with language skills. Being bilingual in English and French can be a valuable asset in the job market.
In conclusion, studying the French language can offer numerous personal, academic, and professional advantages, while also providing access to a rich and diverse culture with a global reach. Whether you're interested in travel, culture, career opportunities, or personal growth, learning French can be a valuable and fulfilling pursuit.
Why study German?

Studying German can be a valuable and rewarding endeavor for several reasons:
-
Educational Opportunities: Germany is known for its high-quality education system and offers numerous scholarship programs for international students. Proficiency in German can be essential if you plan to pursue higher education in Germany, where many programs are taught in German.
-
Cultural Enrichment: Learning German can provide you with access to a rich cultural heritage. Germany has a long history of contributions to literature, music, philosophy, and the arts. Understanding the language allows you to engage with these cultural treasures in their original form.
-
Global Language: German is the most widely spoken native language in the European Union and is among the top ten most spoken languages globally. Learning German can facilitate communication and collaboration with German-speaking people both within and outside of Europe.
-
Intellectual Challenge: Learning a new language, especially one with a different grammatical structure and vocabulary like German, can be intellectually stimulating. It can improve cognitive skills, enhance problem-solving abilities, and increase your overall linguistic and cultural awareness.
-
International Relations: Germany plays a significant role in international politics and diplomacy. Proficiency in German can be beneficial if you're interested in diplomacy, international relations, or working for international organizations with a German presence.
-
Career Opportunities: Germany is one of the world's largest economies, and it has a strong presence in various industries, including automotive, engineering, pharmaceuticals, and technology. Learning German can open up job opportunities in these sectors and enhance your career prospects, especially if you plan to work or do business in Germany or with German companies.
-
Personal Fulfillment: Learning a new language is a fulfilling experience. It opens up opportunities to connect with people from different backgrounds, understand diverse perspectives, and broaden your horizons.
-
Preparation for Other Languages: German is part of the Germanic language family, which includes languages like English, Dutch, and Swedish. Learning German can make it easier to learn other Germanic languages in the future.
In short, studying German can offer a wide range of practical and personal benefits, from career opportunities to cultural enrichment and personal growth. Whether you're interested in business, academia, travel, or simply expanding your horizons, learning German can be a valuable skill.

Why study Greek?
Studying Greek a range of intellectual, cultural, and practical benefits. Here are several reasons why someone might choose to study Greek:
-
Historical Significance: Greek civilization, especially in its ancient form, has had a profound influence on Western culture. Many of the foundational ideas in philosophy, science, mathematics, and politics originated in ancient Greece. Studying Greek allows you to access the primary sources of these ideas, such as the works of Plato, Aristotle, and Euclid.
-
Literature and Philosophy: Greek literature, including epic poetry like the Iliad and the Odyssey, drama by playwrights like Sophocles and Euripides, and philosophical works by thinkers like Socrates and Aristotle, has shaped the way we think and write to this day. Reading these texts in their original language can provide a deeper understanding of their nuances.
-
Language and Linguistics: Greek is an Indo-European language with a rich grammatical and syntactical structure. Studying Greek can enhance your understanding of language in general and provide insights into the development of linguistic concepts.
-
Mythology: Greek mythology has had a significant impact on art, literature, and religious thought throughout history. Understanding Greek can help you explore these myths in their original context and better appreciate their cultural significance.
-
Research and Academia: Scholars in various fields often need to reference Greek texts or conduct research that involves the Greek language. Proficiency in Greek can be an asset for researchers in fields such as classics, history, theology, and linguistics.
-
Connection to Heritage: For individuals with Greek heritage, studying the language can be a way to connect with their roots and preserve their cultural identity.

Why study Hungarian?
Studying Hungarian can be a rewarding experience for various reasons, depending on your personal interests and goals. Here are several reasons why someone might choose to study Hungarian:
-
Cultural Exploration: Learning Hungarian allows you to delve into the rich culture and history of Hungary. Hungary has a unique and vibrant cultural heritage, with contributions to music, art, literature, and cuisine that can be deeply appreciated through the language.
-
Academic and Research Opportunities: For those interested in fields like linguistics, anthropology, or history, studying Hungarian can open up research opportunities. Hungary has a unique language with a fascinating history, making it an interesting subject of study.
-
Personal Growth: Learning any new language is a mental exercise that can improve cognitive abilities like memory, problem-solving, and multitasking. It can also be a fulfilling personal challenge.
-
Language Diversity: Hungarian is one of the few non-Indo-European languages spoken in Europe, which makes it linguistically fascinating. Studying Hungarian can broaden your understanding of language diversity.
-
Job Market Advantage: In certain industries like translation, localization, or tourism, having proficiency in Hungarian can give you a competitive edge, as there may be a demand for professionals who can work with the language.
Learning Hungarian can be a challenging but rewarding language learning experience. If you enjoy linguistic challenges and have a passion for languages, it can be a fulfilling pursuit.

Why study Italian?
Here are some compelling reasons to consider studying Italian:
-
Cultural Richness: Italy has a rich and diverse cultural heritage that spans thousands of years. By learning Italian, you can delve into the world of art, music, literature, and history, including famous figures like Leonardo da Vinci, Dante Alighieri, and Michelangelo. You'll have the opportunity to explore the country's contributions to world culture.
-
Travel: Italy is a popular tourist destination with a wealth of historical sites, beautiful landscapes, and world-class cuisine. Speaking Italian can greatly enhance your travel experience, allowing you to communicate with locals more effectively, appreciate the culture, and navigate the country with ease.
-
Career Opportunities: Italian is the official language of Italy and is spoken in some parts of Switzerland and other countries. Learning Italian can open up career opportunities in various fields such as tourism, international business, art, fashion, and gastronomy. Italy has a strong economy, and being proficient in Italian can be an asset when doing business with Italian companies or organizations.
-
Art and Literature: Italian literature is renowned worldwide, with classics like Dante's "Divine Comedy" and the works of authors like Italo Calvino and Elena Ferrante. Many masterpieces of art are also associated with Italy, from Renaissance paintings to Roman architecture. Learning Italian can provide you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of these cultural treasures.
-
Cuisine: Italian cuisine is celebrated globally for its deliciousness and variety. By learning Italian, you can better understand the ingredients, recipes, and culinary traditions of Italy. You might also find it easier to explore Italian cookbooks and recipes.
-
Personal Growth: Learning a new language is an excellent exercise for the brain and can improve cognitive abilities, memory, and problem-solving skills. It also provides a sense of accomplishment and can boost your self-confidence.
-
Interconnected World: In today's globalized world, being multilingual is an advantage. Italian is one of the official languages of the European Union and is spoken by millions of people worldwide. It can help you connect with Italian-speaking communities in your own country and across the globe.
-
Romance Language: Italian is a Romance language, and if you're interested in languages, learning Italian can be a stepping stone to understanding other Romance languages like Spanish, French, Portuguese, and Romanian.
-
Academic Pursuits: If you're considering further studies in fields like history, art history, archaeology, or linguistics, a knowledge of Italian can be indispensable for accessing primary sources and research materials.
-
Personal Enjoyment: Ultimately, learning Italian can be a deeply rewarding and enjoyable experience. Whether you're reading Dante's poetry, watching Italian films, or having conversations with native speakers, it can bring a sense of fulfillment and enrichment to your life.
In conclusion, the decision to study Italian can be motivated by a combination of cultural appreciation, career prospects, personal growth, and the sheer joy of discovering a new language and culture. It's a choice that can open doors to a world of knowledge and experiences.

Why study Japanese?
Studying Japanese can be a rewarding and valuable pursuit for several reasons:
-
Cultural Appreciation: Japan has a rich and vibrant culture that spans centuries. Learning Japanese can deepen your understanding and appreciation of Japanese art, literature, history, and traditional customs, such as tea ceremonies, martial arts, and festivals.
-
Language Diversity: Japanese is a unique language with a different writing system (hiragana, katakana, and kanji) and a distinct grammar structure. Learning Japanese can broaden your linguistic horizons and help you appreciate the diversity of languages around the world.
-
Education and Research: If you're interested in fields like linguistics, anthropology, or Asian studies, Japanese proficiency may be necessary for conducting research or accessing primary sources.
- Career Opportunities: Proficiency in Japanese can open doors to various career opportunities. Japan has a strong economy and is home to many multinational companies. Knowledge of the language and culture can be an asset in fields such as business, technology, translation, international relations, and tourism.
- Global Perspective: Japan is an important player on the world stage in terms of economics, politics, and culture. Understanding Japanese and Japanese culture can provide you with insights into global issues and international relations.
-
Media and Entertainment: If you enjoy Japanese pop culture, including anime, manga, music, and movies, knowing the language can allow you to enjoy these forms of entertainment in their original form without relying on translations or subtitles.
-
Personal Growth: Learning a new language is a challenging and intellectually stimulating endeavor. It can improve your cognitive skills, such as problem-solving and multitasking, and boost your self-confidence as you achieve milestones in your language learning journey.
While learning Japanese can be challenging due to its complex writing system and grammar, the benefits it offers in terms of personal and professional growth, cultural appreciation, and global engagement make it a worthwhile endeavor for many individuals.

Why study Korean?
Here are some compelling reasons why you might consider studying Korean:
-
Linguistic Uniqueness: Korean is not related to any other language, making it a linguistic outlier. This uniqueness can pique the interest of language enthusiasts who are curious about the origins and evolution of languages.
-
Cultural Understanding: The isolation of the Korean language reflects the unique history and culture of the Korean Peninsula. By learning Korean, you gain insight into a culture that has evolved independently in many ways, with its own distinct traditions, customs, and worldview.
-
Enhanced Language Skills: Learning a language isolate like Korean can improve your language learning skills in general. Since there are no closely related languages to rely on, you'll develop strong language skills, including pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary acquisition.
-
Academic Pursuits: If you're interested in pursuing academic studies related to Korean culture, history, politics, or language, knowing Korean is often a prerequisite for advanced research and scholarship.
-
Career Opportunities: South Korea has a robust economy with global companies like Samsung, LG, Hyundai, and Kia. Learning Korean can open doors to business opportunities and career advancement, especially in industries like technology, finance, and trade. Many organizations, both in Korea and internationally, seek individuals who are fluent in Korean. This demand spans fields like translation, diplomacy, international relations, teaching, and more.
-
Bridge to North Korea: If you have an interest in diplomacy, international relations, or peace-building efforts, knowing Korean can be a valuable asset when dealing with North Korea, given the language's importance in inter-Korean relations.
-
Cultural Exchange: Learning Korean can facilitate cultural exchange between Koreans and people from other parts of the world. It can lead to meaningful friendships and cross-cultural understanding.
While learning any language requires time and effort, the decision to study Korean can offer a wide range of personal, academic, and professional benefits, as well as the opportunity to engage with a vibrant and dynamic culture.

Why study Portuguese?
Studying Portuguese can be a valuable and rewarding endeavor for several reasons:
-
Cross-Linguistic Insights: Portuguese belongs to the Romance language family, which includes languages like Spanish, French, Italian, and Romanian. Learning Portuguese can provide you with insights into the commonalities and differences among these languages, making it easier to pick up other Romance languages if you choose to do so.
-
Education: Portuguese is an official language in many academic institutions worldwide. Learning Portuguese can open doors to studying in Portuguese-speaking countries and accessing educational opportunities in these regions.
-
Global Relevance: Portuguese is one of the world's most widely spoken languages, with over 260 million native speakers. It's the official language of several countries, including Portugal, Brazil, Mozambique, Angola, and more. Learning Portuguese can open up opportunities for travel, work, and cultural immersion in these regions.
-
Cultural Enrichment: Portuguese-speaking countries have a rich cultural heritage, including literature, music, art, and cuisine. By learning Portuguese, you can engage with this cultural diversity and gain a deeper appreciation for it.
-
Global Perspective: Learning Portuguese can expand your worldview and help you better understand the perspectives and issues of Portuguese-speaking communities, which can be beneficial in an increasingly interconnected world.

Why study Romanian?
Studying the Romanian language can be a valuable and rewarding endeavor for a variety of reasons. Here are some compelling reasons to consider studying Romanian:
-
Linguistic Benefits: Romanian is a Romance language, which means it shares similarities with other Romance languages like Spanish, French, Italian, and Portuguese. Learning Romanian can make it easier to learn other languages in this language family in the future.
-
Grammatical Understanding: Romanian has a complex grammatical structure, including cases, genders, and verb conjugations. Mastering these aspects of the language can deepen your understanding of grammar in general and improve your ability to grasp the nuances of other languages.
-
Cultural Enrichment: Learning Romanian can provide insight into the rich cultural heritage of Romania. Romania has a long and diverse history, and its language is a window into its literature, art, music, and traditions.
-
Professional Opportunities: Proficiency in Romanian can be an asset in certain careers. If you work in international business, diplomacy, journalism, or any field that involves interaction with Romanian-speaking communities, knowing the language can be a significant advantage.
-
Academic Pursuits: If you're interested in studying Romanian history, culture, or literature at an academic level, a strong command of the language is essential for conducting research and accessing primary sources.
-
Multilingualism: Multilingual individuals often have cognitive advantages, such as better problem-solving abilities, improved memory, and increased adaptability. Learning Romanian contributes to your multilingualism and the cognitive benefits associated with it.

Why study Russian?
Here are some good reasons to think about learning Russian:
-
Language Diversity: Learning Russian can also enhance your understanding of linguistics. Russian is an Indo-European language and has a unique grammatical structure and vocabulary, which can be intellectually stimulating for language enthusiasts.
-
Intellectual Challenge: Russian's Cyrillic script and grammar may provide a unique linguistic challenge for learners.
-
Global Significance: Russian is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, and it is the most widely spoken language in Eurasia. It is one of the six official languages of the United Nations, making it an important diplomatic and international language.
- Cultural Enrichment: Learning Russian can provide you with access to a rich and diverse culture. Russia has a rich literary tradition with renowned authors like Tolstoy and Dostoevsky, as well as a vibrant arts scene with famous composers, painters, and ballet. Exploring these aspects of Russian culture can be intellectually rewarding.
-
Geopolitical Insights: Russia plays a crucial role in international politics. Understanding the language and culture can provide insights into Russian perspectives on global issues, which can be valuable in today's interconnected world.
-
Academic and Research Opportunities: If you have an interest in fields such as international relations, political science, history, or literature, knowing Russian can be a valuable asset for conducting research and accessing source materials.
-
Career Opportunities: Russia is a major player in the global economy, and knowledge of the language can open up career opportunities in various sectors, including trade, energy, technology, and international relations. Many multinational companies value employees with Russian language skills.
-
Humanitarian Work: If you are interested in humanitarian work, knowing Russian can be an asset in regions where it is spoken, such as parts of Eastern Europe and Central Asia.

Why study Spanish?
Studying the Spanish language can be a valuable and rewarding endeavor for several reasons:
-
Language of the Future: Spanish is spoken in 21 countries with over 460 million native speakers, enhancing your ability to communicate and connect worldwide. Spanish is projected to continue growing as a global language. By learning it, you position yourself for future opportunities in a world where Spanish-speaking populations are increasing.
-
Language of Diplomacy: Spanish is one of the official languages of international organizations like the United Nations, the European Union, and the Organization of American States. Proficiency in Spanish can be an asset for careers in diplomacy and international relations.
-
Global Significance: Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. It's the official language in 21 countries, including Spain, Mexico, most of Central and South America, and parts of the United States. Learning Spanish opens doors to communication with over 460 million native speakers.
-
Professional Opportunities: In an increasingly interconnected world, knowing Spanish can enhance your career prospects. Many multinational companies require employees who can speak Spanish, especially if they operate in Spanish-speaking markets.
-
Cultural Enrichment: Learning Spanish opens the door to a rich and diverse world of literature, art, music, and film. Spanish-speaking countries have made significant contributions to global culture, and by learning the language, you can appreciate and engage with these contributions more deeply.
-
Travel and Tourism: If you enjoy traveling or plan to visit Spanish-speaking countries, learning Spanish can significantly enhance your travel experience. It allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture, communicate with locals, and navigate more effectively.
-
Diverse Spanish-Speaking Communities: Spanish-speaking communities are incredibly diverse, both linguistically and culturally. Learning Spanish allows you to connect with people from different backgrounds and engage in cross-cultural exchanges.
-
Accessibility: Resources for learning Spanish are widely available, from language courses and apps to books and online materials. It's relatively accessible for English speakers due to its shared Latin roots.
In summary, studying Spanish is not only a practical choice but also a gateway to diverse cultures, personal growth, and a range of opportunities in an increasingly globalized world.