Easy to Learn Languages for English Speakers to Master in 2024 (2024)

For English speakers, embarking on the journey of language learning can feel like an insurmountable challenge, yet, as you wonder which language to study, keep in mind that that not all languages are created equal. Some are easier to learn than others, thanks to their similarities to English and their straightforward linguistic structures.

When choosing a new language to learn, English speakers often seek languages that are not only useful but also relatively easy to pick up, as long as they are willing to put it the required amount of time. Here are some of the top languages that fit these criteria in 2024:

1. Spanish

Spanish remains one of the easiest languages for English speakers to learn. Spanish is also incredibly useful, being the second most spoken language in the world and widely used in the United States​ in both professional and personal contexts.

Advantages for native English speakers: Spanish is one of the most straightforward languages for English speakers to learn due to its phonetic nature — words are pronounced as they are spelled. The shared Latin roots mean a substantial overlap in vocabulary, making it easier to guess the meanings of new words​. Based on Foreign Service Institute data aggregated for the last 76 years, it takes 30 weeks of full-time study (or 750 class hours) to achieve full "General Professional Proficiency" in Spanish.

Cultural Richness: Spanish opens doors to a vast array of cultures across Spain, Latin America, and the Caribbean. It's the officially second most spoken language in the world, giving learners access to a plethora of literature, music, and films.

2. Portuguese

Advantages for native English speakers: Portuguese shares many similarities with Spanish, which makes it easier for those familiar with either language to learn the other. International Center for Language Studies even offers Portuguese group classes for Spanish speakers that enable a student to progress from Beginner to Advanced in just 3 sessions (9 months). The language is spoken in Portugal, Brazil, and several African countries. The grammar and vocabulary are straightforward for English speakers, but learners should note the differences between Brazilian and Continental Portuguese​. Based on Foreign Service Institute data, it takes 24 weeks of full-time study (or 600 class hours) to achieve full "General Professional Proficiency" in Portuguese.

Cultural Richness: Spoken in Portugal, Brazil, and several African countries, Portuguese offers rich cultural experiences, especially in music and cuisine.

3. Italian

Advantages for native English speakers: Italian is another Romance language that is relatively easy for English speakers to pick up due to its straightforward pronunciation and familiar vocabulary. It is also phonetic and shares many cognates with English. Based on Foreign Service Institute data, it takes 24 weeks of full-time study (or 600 class hours) to achieve full "General Professional Proficiency".

Cultural Richness: Italian is not only useful for travel and cultural experiences, but also for rich history in art, music, and cuisine making learning Italian especially rewarding. Whether exploring Renaissance art, opera, or authentic Italian cooking, the language enhances the experience.

4. French

Advantages for native English speakers: French shares a significant amount of vocabulary with English due to the Norman Conquest. This makes it easier to learn many words and phrases. While its pronunciation can be tricky, the shared Latin roots with English help with vocabulary. French is an official language in 29 countries and several international organizations. Based on Foreign Service Institute data, it takes 30 weeks of full-time study (or 750 class hours) to achieve full "General Professional Proficiency".

Cultural Richness: French is the language of diplomacy, fashion, and cuisine. Learning French provides access to a wealth of literature, cinema, and opportunities in international relations.

5. Dutch

Advantages for native English speakers: Dutch is a Germanic language, closely related to English, easing the learning process. Dutch is primarily spoken in the Netherlands and Belgium, and learning it can be beneficial for careers in the European Union and international business​. Based on Foreign Service Institute data, it takes 24 weeks of full-time study (or 600 class hours) to achieve full "General Professional Proficiency".

Cultural Richness: Dutch opens up opportunities in the Netherlands and Belgium. The Netherlands is known for its contributions to art, design, and a progressive approach to social, i.e. environmental, issues.

6. Swedish

Advantages for native English speakers: Swedish, another Germanic language, shares similar grammar structures and vocabulary with English. Based on Foreign Service Institute data, it takes 24 weeks of full-time study (or 600 class hours) to achieve full "General Professional Proficiency".

Cultural Richness: Swedish provides access to Scandinavian culture, particularly in music, design, and technology.

7. Romanian

Advantages for native English speakers: Romanian, though less commonly chosen, is a Romance language with a large number of cognates in English. Even though pronunciation can be influenced by its Slavic neighbors, it remains relatively easy for English speakers​ and also requires 24 weeks of full-time study (600 hours) to achieve "General Professional Proficiency", according to FSI.

Cultural Richness: Romanian provides access to Eastern European culture, rich folklore, and literature. It’s a less commonly chosen language, making it unique and valuable.

8. Swahili

Advantages for native English speakers: Swahili, also known as Kiswahili, is the native language of people in Kenya, Tanzania, and Mozambique, and it is also widely spoken in Uganda. Swahili is one of the easiest languages for English speakers to learn. Surprisingly, it requires just 6 weeks of full-time study (150 hours) more than Spanish or French to achieve "General Professional Proficiency, as the Foreign Language Institute emphasizes. The language has a soft sound, and its pronunciation is easy for English speakers to pick up.

Cultural Richness: Although it is not among the most widely spoken languages globally, it is a great choice for those passionate about language exploration. Additionally, Swahili's vocabulary is heavily influenced by Arabic.

Why and how to learn these languages?

By achieving fluency in these languages, English speakers can not only expand their communication skills but also open up numerous opportunities for travel, achieving business goals, and taking part in cultural exchanges. Whether for personal interest or professional development, choosing one of these languages can be a rewarding and manageable endeavor.

ICLS has provided language training since 1966. Our clients include individuals, government agencies such as the FBI, USAID, the Foreign Service Institute, and organizations such as the Pan American Health Organization, the IMF, and the World Bank, to name a few. With over 80 languages to choose from (and all 8 easy-to-learn languages listed above!), a corps of highly skilled and trained language teachers, and in-house curricula, your language learning journey is off to a great start when choosing ICLS. Explore our foreign language classes to find group or private language classes best suited to your needs.