As an expert in the field of linguistics and language acquisition, I would like to share my insights on the best languages to learn. The choice of language to learn can be influenced by various factors such as personal interests, career goals, cultural curiosity, and global relevance. Here's a comprehensive look at some of the top languages that are beneficial to learn in today's interconnected world.

Mandarin
The official language of China, Mandarin is already the most widely spoken language in the world. With China's growing economic and political influence, learning Mandarin can open up a plethora of opportunities in business, diplomacy, and cultural exchange. It's a challenging language for English speakers due to its tonal nature and logographic writing system, but the potential rewards are significant.

Arabic
Arabic is a rich and complex language that is spoken across a vast region, from the Middle East to North Africa. It is the liturgical language of Islam and thus holds significant religious importance. Learning Arabic can provide a deep understanding of the Arab world's history, culture, and politics, which are central to global affairs.

Spanish
Spanish is the second most spoken language by the number of native speakers and is widely used in the Americas and parts of Europe. It's a Romance language that shares many similarities with other European languages, making it a gateway to learning other Romance languages. Spanish is also one of the six official languages of the United Nations.

German
German is a key language in Europe, spoken in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and other countries. It's known for its precision and is widely used in scientific, technical, and philosophical literature. Learning German can be advantageous for those interested in these fields or looking to work in or with German-speaking countries.

Portuguese
Portuguese is another Romance language that has a significant presence in Brazil and Portugal, as well as in various African countries due to historical ties. It's a relatively easy language for English speakers to learn and can be a stepping stone to understanding other Romance languages.

Russian
Russian is a Slavic language that is spoken in Russia and several Eastern European countries. It's known for its complex grammar and Cyrillic alphabet. Learning Russian can be a strategic choice for those interested in the politics, literature, and history of the region.

French
French is often considered the language of diplomacy and culture. It's one of the working languages of the United Nations and is widely used in international relations, fashion, and culinary arts. The French language can add a touch of sophistication and is a gateway to French and francophone literature and cinema.

Japanese
Japanese is a unique language with a rich cultural heritage. It's spoken primarily in Japan and has a distinct writing system that includes kanji, hiragana, and katakana. Learning Japanese can be beneficial for those interested in Japanese technology, anime, manga, and business.

When deciding which language to learn, consider the following:
- Personal Interests: Are you fascinated by a particular culture or have a passion for its cuisine, literature, or cinema?
- Professional Opportunities: Does the language align with your career goals or open up new job prospects?
- Travel: Do you plan to travel or live in a country where the language is spoken?
- Difficulty Level: Are you up for the challenge of a language that is very different from your native tongue?
- Global Reach: Does the language have a wide reach and influence in the global community?

In conclusion, the "best" language to learn is subjective and depends on individual goals and interests. Each language has its own set of benefits and challenges, and the journey of learning a new language is as rewarding as the destination.

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The Top Languages to Learn in 2018Mandarin. The official language of China, Mandarin is already the most widely spoken language in the world. ... Arabic. ... Spanish. ... German. ... Portuguese. ... Russian. ... French. ... Japanese.More items...read more >>