How challenging is it to learn a second language?

Answer 1

Here are some ideas many second language learners don't normally realize.

FIRST: Completely eliminate idioms when you speak. We use a LOT of phrases that are not understood in other countries, and they use ones we don't understand. Examples: Get to first base. Flip the switch. Hitch a ride. Hit the road.
Put yourself in the place of a new learner of English and ask yourself if you would really understand the meaning of 'hit the road' when you heard it, or would you litterally try to 'hit the road'?
Even between England and North America, for example 'knock someone up'. In North America it means get someone pregnant. In England it means knock on their door. So you can see how embarrassing it might be should you stumble on an idiom that means something else.

SECOND: Realize that it is not ALWAYS a one-for-one word exchange when translating. Some languages can express an idea in as little as one word compared to a few, and vice-versa.
Hand in hand with this, understanding that the idea being expressed is what's important, not the way it's said. Just because the sentence wasn't constructed the way we would have said it doesn't make it wrong.

THIRD: Pronunciation can be improved by reciting the names of things you see as you walk about, and holding conversations with yourself in the absence of friends to practice with. (Warning! Don't do this in the vacinity of mental institutions.)

LAST: I cheated. I learnt the worlds easiest language first and now I find I understand English better (my native tongue) and I'm in a better position to learn more languages. I've provided a link below to better explain this.

That language was ESPERANTO. It is designed such that you MUST understand sentence structure, which helps to understand other languages. Plus you end up with a multitude of Esperanto friends; oh the burdens we bear.

Not to understate it of course, but listen to and read as much as you possibly can, whenever you can. Immersion, immersion, IMMERSION!

Gxis!

Answer 2

good question. it depends on a lot of things. such as age, and how good you are at retaining information. you should probably pick a language that you know you will get everyday practice with, or at least some practice. i chose spanish, and it comes so easily for me. i am almost fluent. i think one of the reasons is because i am so interested in the culture and the people. about 80% of my friends are latino. mostly mexican, but there are a few from colombia. they all call me "la mexicana blanca" (the white mexican)
just make sure youre going to pick a language that you are going to put some effort into learning, and dont just pick one that you will never use, or you will have no real desire to learn it, making it a challenge.
hope i was help! :)

Answer 3

It depends on whether you're learning it as a child or as an adult.

Next, some languages are harder to learn than others.

After that, to really be successful you have to actually attempt to use it in order to master it. Just studying out of a book a few hours a week won't cut it.

Answer 4

It can be pretty challenging, especially if it was completely different than your mother language. But if you're determined and focused on learning that language, you'll be good in it in a short period of time.

Answer 5

It depends how motivated and determined you are to learn the language for instance i have been taking French for 4 years now and i still barely understand it, i dont even like taking it!

Answer 6

Well, I'm learning Spanish in high school right now, and it's really easy for me to learn and comprehend. I don't know about learning any other languages though.

Answer 7

It's not very hard if you try... I speak 6 languages and I'm 15 years old. It just takes dedication.

Answer 8

it depends on the language. I'm in high school now and taking ASL (American sign language) and it's pretty easy and very interesting! i recommend it.

Answer 9

I chose mandarin chinese...it's been a really tough challenge

Answer 10

The younger you are, the easier it is.