TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Languages are getaways to abundant exciting opportunities of cultural heritages and linguistic adventures. With close to 7,000 languages spoken around the world today, aspiring polyglots often wonder which ones are truly worth mastering in the modern age. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the choices, see the best languages to learn below.
10 Best Languages to Learn in 2025
Go Overseas, Fluentu and other language learning sources all deemed Mandarin Chinese, Spanish, and Japanese as some of the best languages to learn in 2025. Other top recommended languages sharing the reputation also include:
1. Mandarin Chinese
Mandarin Chinese proudly holds the title of the world’s most spoken language, so it’s no surprise that it tops the list of best languages to learn. Widely used in powerhouse economies like China, Taiwan, and Singapore, Mandarin plays a vital role in formal settings, from government to business.
With the rapid rise of Chinese companies on the global stage, encountering Mandarin speakers in professional environments has become increasingly common, making it a smart choice for career-minded learners.
Number of speakers: around 1.3 billion
Countries to learn Mandarin Chinese: China, Taiwan and Singapore
2. Spanish
Spanish stands out as one of the most useful languages to learn, thanks to its widespread use across Spain, Latin America, and many parts of the United States. As the official language in over 20 countries, Spanish unlocks countless professional opportunities in fields like healthcare, customer service, and social work. With over 500 million speakers globally, finding high-quality learning materials is a breeze. From apps to podcasts, the options are endless.
Number of speakers: around 595 million
Countries to learn Spanish: Spain, Mexico and Costa Rica
3. French
Spoken by over 300 million people across the globe, French holds a prestigious place as an official language in 29 countries including influential nations like Canada. Its global presence makes it one of the recommended languages to learn.
French serves as a handy passport to rich cultural experiences. From wandering through the charming streets of Switzerland to studying haute couture in the fashion capital of France, speaking French lets you explore the world with ease and authenticity.
Number of speakers: around 320 million
Countries to learn Spanish: France, Switzerland, and Canada
4. Arabic
Often labeled as one of the hardest languages for English speakers to master, Arabic has a reputation for complexity. Learning Arabic is a powerful gateway to career opportunities, given the influential role Arab nations play in global diplomacy and international business.
If you're ready to embark on this linguistic journey, start by choosing a specific regional dialect—like Egyptian, Levantine, or Gulf Arabic—as your foundation. It’s a smart way to ease into the language while tailoring your skills to real-world use.
Number of speakers: around 375 million
Countries to learn Spanish: Egypt, Morocco, and Jordan
5. Korean
The Korean Wave, also known as Hallyu, has swept across the globe, putting South Korea on the map not just for its addictive K-dramas and chart-topping K-pop, but also for its growing influence in global politics, business, and innovation. While many are drawn to the language through cultural fascination, others view Korean as a smart investment in their future. Home to global giants like Samsung, Hyundai, and LG, South Korea offers exciting career prospects for those fluent in its language.
Number of speakers: around 81 million
Countries to learn Spanish: South Korean
6. German
It doesn’t surprise anyone that many polyglots eagerly add German to their language journey. Beyond its strong economic benefits, mastering German unlocks access to a rich treasure trove of scientific and academic knowledge.
In fact, long before English became the dominant language of science after World War I, German held the prestigious crown for centuries.
Number of speakers: around 75.76 million
Countries to learn Spanish: Germany and Austria
7. Japanese
Home to global giants like Canon, Panasonic, Toshiba, Sony, and Nintendo, Japan has long been a key player in shaping the world’s economic landscape. Its influence also doesn’t stop there as Japan’s vibrant culture, especially its groundbreaking anime, has captivated audiences worldwide.
These compelling factors make the challenge of mastering Japanese’s three writing systems and intricate grammar more than worth the effort for dedicated language learners.
Number of speakers: around 125 million
Countries to learn Spanish: Japan
8. Portuguese
Brazil’s striking tapestry of diverse cultures, arts, and breathtaking natural beauty makes it truly unique. Learning Portuguese opens the door to fully experiencing the country’s treasures whether you're navigating professional opportunities or exploring its stunning travel destinations.
Moreover, mastering Portuguese is essential to unlock deeper insights into the vast and mysterious Amazon Basin for biologists and nature enthusiasts.
Number of speakers: around 260 million
Countries to learn Spanish: Brazil and Portugal
9. Italian
Italy has long been a dream destination for travelers seeking a rich cultural adventure, from its stunning heritage sites and mouth-watering cuisine to countless authentic local experiences. By learning Italian, you’ll unlock the ability to explore the country’s hidden gems and vibrant cities with the confidence and charm of a true local.
Number of speakers: around 63 million
Countries to learn Spanish: Italy and Switzerland
10. Hindi
Rounding out the list of the best languages to learn, Hindi shines with its deep cultural roots and global influence. Just as Korean Hallyu has captivated audiences worldwide, Bollywood’s entertainment scene draws a massive following, making Hindi an exciting language to embrace.
Beyond culture, a growing number of international companies are on the lookout for Hindi speakers, opening doors to promising career opportunities in today’s expanding markets.
Number of speakers: around 585.5 million
Countries to learn Spanish: India and Nepal
With thousands of languages spoken worldwide, choosing which to learn can feel overwhelming.
But by focusing on these best languages to learn in 2025, you’re setting yourself up for meaningful connections and valuable skills that can shape your personal and professional journey.
Editor’s Choice: Top 7 Hardest Languages to Learn for English Speakers, from Arabic to Korean
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