Why learn French of all options? What are the advantages? Is it really worth it in 2024? Check out the 24 top benefits of studying French.
What makes French a valuable language compared to other popular choices?
You may like to learn and improve your French language skills but need more motivation.
If you are already learning French, you may be interested in knowing about the benefits. You may imagine the opportunities that will be once you speak fluently.
Perhaps you’re unsure and still wondering whether it is your perfect pick.
Irrespective of your situation, you are in the right place. You will discover why immersing yourself in this language can transform your life.
Here, I have written 24 exciting reasons to embark on the journey of French studies. You can see how this decision can immensely affect your life and its outcomes.
Table of Contents
I. French is a widely spoken global language
French is valuable across the globe because of its widespread use. That is why it is beneficial everywhere and for many goals. Let’s explore it further!
I. French is a widespread language
Nearly 320 million people worldwide speak French, according to the report of the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF).
As per Ethnologue research, the total number of speakers is 309 million. This includes 80 million natives and 240 million who speak it as a second or third language and learners.
This means roughly 4% of the global population. We shouldn’t forget advanced French learners who don’t use the language day-to-day.
French is the sixteen most spoken mother tongue and the fifth most-spoken language after Mandarin Chinese, English, Hindi, and Spanish. This is also the second most widely used Romance language.
It’s challenging to calculate the exact number of speakers. Yet, given the vast global presence, it’s apparent that French is one of the world’s most spoken languages.
Thus, it’s no surprise that it is an international language with rising demand and popularity.
2. French is the official language of 20 nations
Do you know how many countries have French as their official language?
French is not just spoken in a few countries but is expressed in an exact count of 29 nations where it acts as the de facto language.
In contrast, the importance of well-known languages like Italian, Korean, German, Japanese, and Portuguese are limited to only a few nations.
This is one of the few languages with a global presence. English, Spanish, and Arabic are other languages that can be useful in many areas.
Below is a list of 29 nations where French is the official or national language. The language is noteworthy and holds political influence in many other places despite not being official.
E.g., Benin, Burkina Faso, Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ivory Coast, France, Gabon, Guinea, Monaco, Niger, Senegal, Togo, Belgium, Burundi, Cameroon, Canada, Chad, Central African Republic, Comoros, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Haiti, Luxembourg, Madagascar, Rwanda, Seychelles, Switzerland, and Vanuatu.
3. Importance of French in international business
Millions worldwide speak French, making it one of the most widely spoken languages.
This broad reach provides access to a diverse range of global markets. Proficiency in this language can open doors to business opportunities in various regions.
French is extensively spoken in the European Union and is crucial in international business. Speaking this language can be fruitful for companies operating within the EU.
French is common in many African countries, especially in West and North Africa. These areas present growing business opportunities. It can facilitate business transactions and negotiations.
According to OIF estimates, there will be approximately 715 million speakers in 2050. This can account for around 8% of the world’s population.
Given the current numbers and trends, it is likely to increase. Studying French can help build personal connections. It can also expand your skill prospects in the competitive global market.
4. Useful in various influential organizations
This is one of the few languages with a wide-reaching impact and a global language.
French is among the six official languages of the United Nations. Others are Arabic, Russian, Spanish, English, and Chinese. French and English are the two working languages of the UN Secretariat and are used in daily professional exchanges.
French is part of many international bodies. E.g., NATO, the European Union, UNESCO, the African Union, the International Red Cross, the International Olympic Committee, international courts, and more.
It is the official language in the three cities that host the EU institutions: Strasbourg, Brussels, and Luxembourg.
All these give French-speaking countries a firm presence in global economic and diplomatic affairs.
There are tons of good reasons to learn French. Being a part of so many influential institutions is undoubtedly an encouraging factor.
5. A commonly taught and used Internet language
It is no secret that there are a plentiful number of French speakers all around the globe.
There are an enormous number of individuals devoted to practicing French. Unlike less common and rare languages, it is taught nearly everywhere.
Over 50 million people study French as a foreign language with differing degrees of competency. It is difficult to specify the exact number, but it is likely a vast one, and the figure grows with each passing year.
French is the second most taught language after English. You can find French language learners in nearly all countries across the five continents.
The language ranks seventh in internet usage. It’s a top language in education and comes second in practicality in scientific journals.
The significance of French as a global language is expected to rise. Adding French to your bucket list is a wise move. Its increasing reputation and usage make it a worthwhile pursuit.
II. For the love of Movies, Music, Dance, Culture, Arts & Literature
The artistic, cultural, and entertainment aspects of a country where a language is spoken are what attract most people to it.
French is not an exception. It’s one of the few languages studied for enjoyment and cultural exploration because it’s vibrant and resilient.
6. Watch incredible films and TV shows
Even if you don’t know a single word in French, you can enjoy renowned TV series to learn French. Lupin, Emily in Paris, Family Business, Dix pour cent, M’entends-Tu?, L’Agence, Chef’s Table: France, The Hookup Plan, Drôle, and many more.
Also, you do not need to speak French to enjoy exciting football matches. You can watch matches between Paris Saint-Germain, Monaco, Lille, Nice, etc., of Ligue. Maybe an exhilarating soccer match is unfolding in Algeria or Senegal.
You can make this possible by swapping the audio and subtitle settings to English or your mother tongue.
Imagine desiring an outstanding TV show or French film for learners from France, Canada, Congo, Morocco, or Belgium.
What if there are no English subtitles or dubbing available?
The experience of thoroughly appreciating the movie or show is restricted when we listen to dubbed audio or read subtitles. This text lacks enthusiasm; it’s full of distractions. You always require help with translation.
French fluency opens up infinite possibilities to relish award-winning flicks and television shows from the comfort of your home anytime.
You don’t have to depend on audio or subtitles. You can truly enjoy all those films and shows in the way they were initially meant to be experienced.
Francophone regions are known for producing some of the best movies.
The good news is that your French skills will be valuable when seeing these films. You will also enhance your language talents in a natural background.
Le Fabuleux Destin d’Amelie, Les Intouchables, Persepolis, Detour, The Bastille Killer: A Woman’s Fight, Eyes Open, Duplicity, The Hummingbird Racem, Paris Je T’Aime, A Bout De Souffle, Gemma Bovery, and La Marche De L’Empereur.
And the list of excellent French cinemas goes on and on!
Getting help to understand everything that is said might be vital. For instance, French is often spoken quickly in films with abundant slang and idioms.
You will boost your pleasure once you begin your studies and progress. You will also achieve a more in-depth knowledge of this exquisite language.
7. Listen to some original melodic music
It’s always a delight to listen to lovely music. Don’t you agree?
Many began learning French because of lovely songs and music, believe it or not.
Would you like to know what Edith Piaf says when she sings La Vie en Rose in Saving Private Ryan? One possibility is the lyrics to the chart-topping song by Adé, Davihor, Donamaria, George KA, and Leslie Medina.
There are many famous and classical French-speaking singers and musicians known worldwide.
Johnny Hallyday, Josephine Baker, Zaz, Vanessa Paradis, Cali, Soprano, Jean-Jacques Goldman, Julien Doré, Carla Bruni, Dalida, Claude François, Barabara, Serge Gainsbourg, Georges Brassens, Mélanie Pain, and many more.
Listen to French music to take your language skillfulness to the next level.
Enhancing your pronunciation and hearing knacks while expanding your vocabulary is delightful. Research has shown that singing can benefit when you learn a new language.
Listening to music has a massive power to improve your memory and attention span. It permits you to sharpen your focus and stay fully immersed.
It also enables you to enjoy and understand the lively French culture and different French variations.
8. Learn French to dance and have fun!
If you wish to study a new language and love to dance, combine the two by selecting French.
Learning a language is like knowing how to dance.
Patience, practice, and persistence are crucial to success. Everyone makes mistakes at some point. If you aim and work hard, you’ll overcome it and gain the recognition and win you’re qualified for!
French-speaking countries are home to many famous dances.
Experience the thrill of The French Cancan, valse musette, farandole, bourrée auvergnate, maraîchine, Java, Madison, and Zouk.
You can also check out fantastic African and other musical dances from various Francophone countries. All these can compel you to get on the melodic floor.
Does the movement of your leg show your interest in French dance?
When you learn French, you’ll learn more about it.
9. Access to fantastic world-class literature
The contributions of Francophone literature and philosophy to human history are unparalleled. French offers access to a remarkable world of rich writings, one of its many bonuses.
The French-speaking world has been blessed with the birth of many well-known writers. It extends far beyond the borders of France.
French literature is highly admirable, widely read, and viewed as one of the best in the world. Learning French to enjoy rich literature is a captivating and rewarding endeavor.
The literature from France has a long and illustrious history, with influential works from prominent writers. You can read splendid works by Gustave Flaubert, Victor Hugo, Marcel Proust, and Albert Camus.
As your proficiency improves, start reading classic French literature.
Start with shorter works or abridged versions to make it more accessible. Progress to more complex texts as you become more comfortable with the language.
This comprises superb stories, tales, and wisdom, making studying this language more satisfying. As a result, you’ll learn French more quickly and have access to books not available in English.
Les Misérables, The Little Prince, The Strangers, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Candide, The Count of Monte Cristo, The Three Musketeers, Père Goriot, and Germinal are some most well-known written French novels.
Engaging with works in their actual languages is more elevating than in translations. If you have French knowledge, you can read the original way they were written.
10. Appreciation of the Culture
One of the most notable perks of learning a new language is engrossing yourself in a different culture.
So, if you’re on the fence about French, consider the rich culture you’ll discover! That’s a lifetime experience!
Throughout history, it has had a profound impact on global culture. It’s a widespread influence from Canada and Europe to North, West, and Central Africa.
The cultural variety and use of French worldwide make Francophone nations highly desired.
The diversity of this area is so expansive that it would take more than a lifetime to explore fully. Every region has traditions, history, lifestyles, French dialects, cuisines, and celebrations.
Learning French opens the door to exploring diverse cultural aspects, contrasts, and similarities. These can help you understand their culture and offer endless potential.
This language has many cultural incentives and enables you to connect more deeply with others. You will understand French customs, practices, and traditions deeply.
Have you found something that motivates you?
If not, keep reading!
III. Common advantages of learning a language
Every language has its own benefits! Though they aren’t only intended for French learners, they’re just as worthwhile for them.
11. Boosts your brain and has multiple health benefits
Learning a second language can have various neurological and health usefulness.
Studies conducted by Belgium’s University of Ghent suggest that learning a new language can slow the onset of Alzheimer’s and help to postpone the symptoms of dementia.
Also, the University of California’s analysis shows a correlation between language ability and pause duration.
It can also help delay age-related decline in cognitive function. Research has shown language learning can enhance executive function skills. For example, switching between tasks and inhibiting inappropriate responses.
The importance of French studies doesn’t end there.
As per psychologists Michelle Martin-Rhee and Ellen Bialystok, people who speak two languages perform better than those who only speak one language about problem-solving.
Based on reliable data, learning French advances cognitive performance. The efficacy is infinite, from better memory to enhanced multitasking and decision-making.
Your health and brain can benefit from learning French.
12. Improve your own and learn other languages.
Learning a new language can provide a better understanding of your native language. This is indeed fascinating.
Studies have indicated a correlation between the languages we already know and the ones we are currently learning. Understanding how our brain functions can enhance our language skills.
As you delve deeper into language learning, everything makes sense and becomes more logical. One needs to comprehend the linguistic principles and rules of the foreign language.
For English speakers learning French, mastering sentence structure is crucial.
Writing complex and convincing sentences is more effortless to achieve in your native language or in the one you are proficient in. This is because you pay close attention to the details of syntax and regulations.
Learning a new language can help develop your fluency and sharpen your skills and knowledge. The more languages you become proficient in, the easier it is to gain a new one.
13. Connect, build friendships and relationships
Many individuals learn a new language to enhance their communication with loved ones. This can be for personal, professional, or social reasons. The same holds true for the French.
French can help you communicate with family members or friends who speak the language but don’t share your native tongue.
You can often interact or converse with French-speaking people if you work in a specific field or run a business.
Regardless of your reasons, it can effectively convey your thoughts and feelings to individuals. It permits chances to meet fluent speakers throughout your lifetime, even if you don’t know any natives.
Thankfully, French is one of the most widely spoken languages.
It gives you plenty of possibilities to practice and improve your skills. This can be especially helpful for making references, learning new things, and socializing at work or traveling.
The more time and effort you devote to mastering the language, the more positive the response will probably be. You can quickly build meaningful relationships and connections with others, lasting for years.
14. Discover a fresh outlook on life
A famous Czech proverb says, “You live a new life for every new language you speak.”
Speaking many languages helps us to live many lives. On the other hand, knowing only one language means only living once. Many studies have shown that we exhibit specific personalities when we speak a foreign language.
Your personality can be influenced by the language you choose to speak. Language learning can broaden your personal horizons and unlock new avenues of fulfillment.
French, for example, is a language that can grant you a unique persona. Achieving fluency can give you a sense of mastery that can be applied throughout your lifetime.
IV. Benefits of the French language
Some perks are unique to specific languages and are not found in others. Let’s examine some distinct advantages of the French language.
15. French is not a difficult language to learn
According to FSI studies, French falls into category I and is close to English. As an effect, this is easier for English speakers if they are ready to try.
Like French, Portuguese, Italian, and Spanish, English has many words that come from Latin.
This suggests you can find thousands of cognates like English ones. The terms sound different but have the same meanings.
Air, campus, date, export, film fruits, guide, horizontal, instinct, jungle, karma, long, machine, nature, opinion, pause, quota, radio, secret, taxi, unique, vacant, yoga, zoo.
The list of perfect English-French cognates is unlimited!
You don’t have to learn a totally new alphabet, either. Asian languages like Thai, Korean, Vietnamese, and Cantonese focus more on tones than French.
Unlike Spanish, French is not that phonetic. The accents and pronunciation are complex and often tricky.
French can be challenging for English speakers in some areas, such as pronunciation and verb conjugation. It also has several silent letters and nasal vowels, which can be difficult for English speakers to master.
Typically, French is perceived as a complicated European tongue but more straightforward than you think. You memorize less complex spelling rules and focus more on pronunciation.
Despite having fewer articulation rules, the vast grammar and many tenses are challenging. Yet passion and constant practice will clear a path for your success.
If you want to master a moderate, i.e., neither simple nor easy, language, French is the way to go. This language is not that demanding.
16. Plenty of resources for learning French
Do you know the difficulty of learning a less familiar language, such as Finnish, Tatar, Somali, or Bulgarian?
If you strive to learn a less-taught language, your choices for locating books, audio, teachers, or native speakers are restricted. Finding courses nearby is tough, and even online options are fewer.
It can fast become frustrating when you don’t have the resources. This makes it challenging to achieve any noteworthy progress.
Learning a widespread language such as French can enable your path toward fluency. If you are getting ready for the DELF and DALF exams, you will have superior access to many study materials.
You can find text-based content, lessons, exercises, audio, and videos to study French anywhere you live. For instance, French learning apps, educators, bookstores, and language schools.
French is one of the most taught tongues. Hence, you will have access to enormous resources. Concentrate on picking the right path to accomplish your goal rather than stressing how and where to seek help.
17. Gateway to other Romance languages.
It is easier to learn a second language if it is part of the same language family as the one you already know.
Romance languages such as Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Romanian, and French came from Vulgar Latin. So, they share many similarities, like verbs, grammar, vocabulary, and sentence structure.
Not all Romance tongues are linguistically close despite the closeness in pronunciation.
For instance, the difference between French and Spanish sounds is substantial. You will make an advance once you have a good grasp of the language.
Learning French can be the starting point for knowing other Romance languages.
It also helps English, Dutch, German, Scandinavian, and other European languages. This is because most have the same Indo-European roots and share the same features.
18. French is a beautiful language
French is a beautiful language, exuding elegance and sophistication. Its melodious cadence and poetic expressions create a harmonious symphony of words.
The language’s rich history and cultural essence add depth to its beauty, encapsulating centuries of literature, philosophy, and art.
French offers an intricate dance of sounds, where every syllable carries a nuanced meaning. The eloquence amplifies its allure, captivating listeners with a sense of refinement.
This language evokes a sense of romance and charm, whether spoken in passionate discourse or whispered softly. Its beauty lies in words and the graceful expression of dance that unfolds with each utterance.
IV. Career opportunities and job options
Most people decide to learn French because of the occupation and job prospects it offers.
With so many professions and new career options, it makes sense. Let’s explore this further!
19. Jobs opportunities requiring French
Learning this language can open up exceptional job prospects in French that may not be possible otherwise.
It can raise your earnings, as language jobs pay well. You may also have chances to travel and get the money to explore the world.
In today’s globalized world, companies prefer employees to be bilingual.
Fluency in French increases your chances of being selected as a suitable candidate for various companies. It enhances job opportunities and leads to better work and higher salaries.
The need for French speakers in outsourcing, KPO, and BPO is growing. You can find new openings in media, infrastructure, publishing, finance, technology, tourism, IT, and other fields.
French is one of the most widely used online languages in the digital media sector. Many French-language websites, social media platforms, and online news outlets exist.
It can offer a unique edge to your C.V. Standing out from the competition is crucial when applying for the same position as other candidates.
Working as a freelancer is another ideal option. E.g., writer, linguist tour guide, translator, interpreter, proofreader, teacher, or video maker.
Experience and strong references are a must to guarantee jobs and stable income.
20. Career change to French
Learning French is promising not just for your current position but also for future job alternatives. The skills allow you to explore different career pathways.
In a competitive job market, extra skills like French language abilities can make a big difference when shifting into a new career. It is an invaluable in-demand asset to expand your career horizon.
It broadens your job options and shows your professional and personal growth commitment. French knowledge is profitable and may lead to higher paychecks.
French matters if you’re looking for new work or trying to advance in your current profession. Also, bilinguals can assist you in standing out when vying for promotions and salary hikes.
21. You can do your job better
While not all jobs require French skills, the language is a practical asset for some.
For instance, suppose you work in the hospitality industry. Then, there’s a good possibility you may meet some French-speaking tourists, depending on your location.
Communicating with them allows you to solve their issues quickly and makes them feel relaxed. Knowing you did a more satisfactory job helping them will give you greater fulfillment.
Extra edges appear, such as promotions, higher wages, and other rewards and compensations. And, of course, gratitude and liking!
VI. Travel, study, and job in Francophone countries
French can help if you plan to move to French-speaking regions. It covers pursuing higher education, work, travel, visiting family, and settling as an immigrant.
22. It is useful for travelers
French is fantastic for traveling. This is because it is spoken in over 25 diverse nations with a large number of populations. You will still find many speakers, even in places where it isn’t the prevailing language.
You can travel to French-speaking countries. For example, France, Canada, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Madagascar, Senegal, Rwanda, etc.
You don’t need to know any French to do this. Still, the experience wouldn’t be that splendid.
You’ll feel more comfortable and earn their gratitude if you speak up. It promotes genuine interaction and connection. Doing so can sweeten your travel talents, meet new people, and enrich your life.
The beautiful beaches of French Polynesia, the mountains of Switzerland, and the incredible wildlife of Senegal. Quebec’s majestic natural beauty and the delicious cuisine of France are solid reasons to learn French.
Your proficiency in French can take you off the typical route and expose you to a sincere culture. Fluency is not compulsory. A beginner’s level can still affect and augment your trip experience.
French lets you travel confidently, welcome local customs, and save money. You can interact with everybody, guide like a pro, and get better treatment.
These reasons are solid if you travel to a place where it is the dominant language.
23. Immigrate to French-speaking nations
Living and working abroad can have a powerful impact on one’s life. It exposes you to new perspectives on people, customs, places, festivals, cultures, and yourself.
People travel for various motives. But speaking the local language is crucial if you plan to migrate permanently.
Not only does it increase your chances of obtaining a work permit or visa, but it also makes for a more relaxed stay and employment.
Over 30 nations globally have French as their primary or national language. Those who want to move overseas will find it advantageous.
Also, Once you learn French, you can improve your personal and career prospects in Canada if you intend to live there. If you get B2 in TEF or TCF, you can earn bonus points to expand your chances. You can look for some TEF Canada courses.
No matter where you live in a Francophone region, French will be critical to your everyday life. The top rationale is that most of the locals do not speak English.
24. Study in France, Canada, or other Francophone nations!
How about studying in France, Canada, or one of the best universities in other French-speaking Europe and elsewhere?
Learning French can be rewarding in those regions. There are also a bunch of excellent universities and academic institutions to choose from.
Do you wish to reach a high level of French exams like C1 and C2 or even a master’s? Here, aiming for higher levels is the best way.
You’ll get the motivation to engage and improve your French skills.
Studying abroad is an unforgettable venture. It offers many opportunities for adventure, joy, and discovery.
After completing your education, searching for work may be something you think. That’s where French will make a real difference and boost your resume.
It can support you in footing beyond your comfort zone and shaping your personal life and career.
Final Thoughts: Is Learning French Worth It?
Are any of these 24 reasons inspiring enough for you to undertake the journey of learning French? It can be a good starting point, even if you have only one motivation.
Then what are you waiting for? Begin your fantastic trip to discover French by taking the first step.
Knowing this language brings extraordinary value to both your personal and professional life.
If you want to start, check out LanguageNext’s range of French courses. There is something for everyone. You can also choose from online French classes and study anywhere and anytime at a reasonable price.
Have I persuaded you enough to consider learning French?
Do you have any questions or views about the French language that you would want to share?
Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below! I look forward to hearing from you!
