Do you know that approximately 23M people speak Dutch (as a first language) worldwide? Also known as Dutch Nederland or Netherlandic, it's one of the many West Germanic languages.
Europe hosts the great majority of Dutch speakers. About 16M dwell in Netherland, while the rest of the 7M reside in Flanders (northern Belgium).
Since Netherland held several colonies throughout the world from Asia, and Africa, to the Caribbean and South America, it's spoken in some of the most remarkable places.
However, many new American speakers find themselves wondering, "is Dutch easy to learn?" Though it's not the easiest, still it's simpler than most other foreign languages.
Moreover, new learners can easily grasp it, especially English-speaking individuals. Wondering how?
Why is Dutch Easier To Learn For English Speakers?
Dutch adopts and lends words to other world languages. For example, they utilize many English phrases and words such as 'out-of-the-box' and 'bad hair day,' etc.
In addition to that, over 1450 Dutch words have secured a place in various English dictionaries.
So, if you're an English speaker learning Dutch as a second language, you'll have a blast and the most fun learning experience.
Also, it's not the language only that's cordial; Dutch speakers are too. They can be highly welcoming if they know you're learning the language.
Are you still wondering why take Dutch lessons in Los Angeles, Chicago, or elsewhere in the states? If so, then Read on!
Why Should You Learn Dutch?
Apart from being spoken by some 23M people worldwide, Dutch is the national language of many countries as well; this includes:
- The Netherlands
- Suriname
- Belgium
Also, it's amongst the "official languages" of the European Union. Nevertheless, here are a few convincing reasons why you should learn Dutch:
Dutch Is One Of The Easiest Second Languages To Learn
Expanding on from the previous point, it's a relatively straightforward foreign language, particularly for English-speaking people.
Let me explain:
The Dutch Language Is Quite Similar To German And English
Learning and commanding Dutch will be a breeze if you know how to speak German or English.
That's because it's remarkably similar to both these languages, which makes it a pretty straightforward foreign language to learn for native German or English speakers.
Speaking either German or English will give students a decisive advantage in their Dutch learning.
You May Already Know A Few Dutch Words
A great majority of Dutch words are heavily borrowed from other languages such as English, Hebrew, German, and French.
So, if you know either of the above languages, learning Dutch will become a lot easier and more fun.
Dutch Speakers Will Appreciate The Efforts You Put In
Almost all foreigners communicate in the English language with Dutch speakers. Thus, when foreigners attempt to communicate in Dutch, the natives can't help but appreciate their effort and gladly help them.
They will appreciate the effort you put in and communicate slowly so that you understand fully and better.
Your Grammar And Pronunciation Don't Need To Be Impeccable
Dutch speakers aren't too arrogant or snobby about their language. Making mistakes are perfectly alright, so much so that even Dutch speakers could be sloppy at times with their language.
Remember, Dutch speakers don't always consider grammar rules and pronunciation.
You may think Netherland as a smaller country; however, it has different accents and dialects from one region to another. This is why there is no perfect pronunciation of the Dutch language.
Dutch Is A Widely Spoken Language
Apart from being the 'official' language of Suriname and the Netherlands, Dutch is the national language of Aruba, Curacao, Bonaire, and Belgium.
It's widely spoken in erstwhile Dutch colonies and various emigrant communities worldwide. In addition to that, it's the mother language of 'Afrikaans,' South Africa's third-most spoken language.
So, why should you learn Dutch? That's because almost 23M people speak Dutch as native speakers and some 5M speak it as a foreign language.
Know More About The Rich History And Culture Of Dutch
Whenever you start learning a new language, you'll eventually learn more about its history and culture, even though you primarily focus on practical things such as vocabulary and grammar.
As the famous saying goes, "your ideas are formed by your spoken language." So, when you learn Dutch, you'll be able to know a few insights as to how they think.
Learning Dutch means opening a window into its history, culture, and how people live. But, in case it's too philosophical, here's a more feasible reason why it will assist you in learning their history and culture: it's the only and perhaps the best way to connect with native Dutch people.
Though many Dutch speakers know English, it won't give you the pleasure you seek. Also, learning about a country's history and culture includes many things such as language, humor, sayings, songs, etc., which you can't cover while speaking to someone.
So, learn the language, and you'll learn about its rich culture and history!
Learning Dutch Will Open Several Career Options And Business Opportunities
The Netherlands (also known as Holland in different countries) has a prosperous and stable economy. It's also considered among the European Union's most stable and wealthiest economies.
The country has several multinational corporations working. Thanks to the government that takes specific measures to help small businesses flourish. This means you'll have plenty of career options to go for, along with business opportunities.
However, the vast amount of business and job opportunities aren't the sole reasons you should work in the Netherlands.
There are a couple of other convincing reasons as well, such as:
- High-working standards (with impressive life/work balance)
- Better living standards
- An enhanced healthcare system.
In short, working in Holland provides you with excellent opportunities. Though not every other position or company will need the know-how of Dutch, understanding it will surely help you seek work effectively; plus, you'll have an excellent overall experience.
Even though you're not planning to move, knowing other languages will be your selling point while seeking a job.
There is a range of job opportunities that you can apply to within your country, such as Dutch translator or interpreter, etc.
Learning New Languages Help Open The Mind
Most people don't think much about their first language because it comes naturally. Hence, they don't give much thought to it.
However, when you start learning other languages, you'll start thinking about linguistics. Learning a new language will help you realize how intriguing your first language is.
You'll discover differences and similarities, and you may even develop new feelings and appreciation for the native language.
It's true, learning foreign languages helps open up the mind to one's own language and the surrounding world.
Helps Boost Your Brain
Besides helping open the mind to the native language and various other EU languages, learning Dutch can also enhance the overall functionality and health of the brain.
Learning a foreign language has several brain-boosting advantages like:
- Better memory
- Enhanced ability to visualize and think
- Improved multi-tasking skills
- Quicker and more decisive decision-making
Moreover, it can also help avoid dementia.
This boost could also help learn other languages. Do you speak any other language than your native language?
If so, you'll learn a new language much more efficiently since you're familiar with the challenges that come with learning a second language.
It's the reason why bilinguals find learning a third language comparatively more straightforward. So if you live in Houston, Los Angeles, or another competitive city, learn a new language to stay relevant.
How To Learn Dutch Fast?
Wondering how to speak Dutch fluently? If you intend to learn Dutch efficiently and quickly, the best way to go about it is taking private Dutch lessons in Los Angeles, New York, or elsewhere in the United States.
And what better tutoring platform than Superprof! A simple, quick Superprof search will provide you with a long list of credible Dutch tutors offering engaging and interactive Dutch lessons near you.
Superprof tutors are highly-rated, with a solid academic background, professional certificates, and years of successful professional Dutch tutoring experience. Also, they offer lessons to pupils of all levels and ages.
But before you pick your favorite tutor, it's best to go through each tutor's profile and read reviews (left by former students).
Additionally, it would help if you chose a Dutch tutor who has experience in your field of interest.
For instance, you may want to speak Pennsylvania Dutch, so make sure to choose one that's fluent in it.
On the other hand, if you intend to learn Dutch for traveling, seek a tutor who knows the dialects of destinations you plan to visit.
With Superprof, you can even send messages to potential tutors before taking their first sessions.
Looking for added convenience? Superprof also provides virtual Dutch lessons! They help students connect to world-class instructors, regardless of the location.
From your couch or bed, you can take customized Dutch lessons far better than prerecorded tutoring videos. Your private Dutch tutors will personalize lessons to assist you in meeting your goals, no matter what.
So, enroll yourself in Superprof Dutch lessons in Los Angeles, Atlanta, or somewhere else in the states and speak Dutch like a native!
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