How practial is learning French for the U.S.?

Question

I was learning German and realized how impractical it might be living in the U.S. I've realized how much is translated into French here (because of our Canadian neighbors?) It seems more practical to learn French. Any opinions on the usefullness?

Answer 1

As a French person who lives in the USA for 5 years, it's not practical at all, you won't even need it. It just attract americans that's it.

Answer 2

the most practical language is definitely Spanish here.

I learned both French and Spanish, and I use Spanish way more often. French is good to know though!

You might not use it on a day-to-day basis, but every once in awhile, you might meet a french person. If you work in D.C. you might use it. You could become a french teacher, translate government documents, or work overseas/in Canada.

But seriously, i always use Spanish. If you want a useful language here, learn that.

Answer 3

Learning any second or third language is good. When growing up in the 60's, almost everyone was learning French. No one studies it as much here anymore and the French are still holding it against us. French is described as nasal. German is described as guttural. Study whichever language appeals to you.

I never learned any German and there are some works written in German which I would like to study in their original language.

Answer 4

Depends on where you live...If you live in LA, or most of the Southwest, Spanish would be the way to go. Even as far north as Chicago. My advice, try to learn both French and Spanish, as those and English are probably the most used in the United states. I live in Los Angeles, so for me, I went with my first language and learned to read and write Spanish. Go with your Gut, but if at all possible, learn as many languages as you can, it looks good on a resume.

Answer 5

Learning French is helpful in the US as many words on the SAT have their root in French. Then when taking the SAT one will have an educated shot at getting the right answer, thereby scoring higher on the SAT, which is helpful getting into the college of your choice.

Answer 6

German is basically spoken in Germany and surrounding countries. French on the other hand is more widely spoken worldwide. Much of the African continent speaks French, Canada (as you said), Haiti, French Guiana, and of course France and its neighbors.

Answer 7

Definitely being able to speak French gives you an edge over the others.It enables you to become a PART of the local community (as you said your neighbours are Canadians).

Answer 8

Like you've noticed part of it depends on your geographic location. Are you around predominately French or Spanish speakers?

But overall... Spanish is most useful. You are a more valuable employee if you are bilingual English and Spanish.