Learning a second language is a rewarding but challenging endeavor. Despite what some language-learning apps might claim, achieving fluency in a new language requires a significant investment of time and effort. While some languages are easier for English speakers to learn than others, no language can be mastered overnight. However, by choosing the right language and approach, you can greatly speed up the process.
Time Required to Learn Different Languages
The Foreign Service Institute (FSI) of the U.S. Department of State has categorized languages based on the average number of hours an English speaker needs to reach professional working proficiency. Here’s a look at some common languages:
| Language | Estimated Hours to Fluency |
|---|---|
| Spanish | 600 hours |
| French | 600 hours |
| German | 750 hours |
| Russian | 1,100 hours |
| Arabic | 2,200 hours |
| Mandarin Chinese | 2,200 hours |
| Japanese | 2,200 hours |
| Esperanto | 150–200 hours |
As you can see, some languages require years of study before reaching fluency, while others are much more accessible.
Why Esperanto is the Fastest and Easiest Second Language
Esperanto is unique among languages in that it was specifically designed to be easy to learn. Created in 1887, Esperanto was intended as an international auxiliary language that people from different linguistic backgrounds could learn quickly and use to communicate across cultures.
Here’s why Esperanto is the best choice for anyone looking to learn a second language quickly:
1. Simple Grammar
Unlike national languages that have irregular verbs, complex grammatical rules, and numerous exceptions, Esperanto has a highly regular structure. Verbs are completely regular, with no conjugation changes based on person or number. This makes it much easier to master compared to languages like English or French, which have numerous irregularities. Read more about Esperanto’s simple grammar.
2. Logical Word Formation
Esperanto uses a system of prefixes and suffixes that allow learners to create new words easily. For example, once you learn the root word for “friend” (“amiko”), you can quickly derive related words such as “friendship” (“amikeco”) or “unfriendly” (“malamika”). This dramatically reduces the number of words that need to be memorized. Read more about Esperanto’s logical word formation.
3. Familiar Vocabulary
Many Esperanto words are derived from Latin, Germanic, and Romance language roots, making them instantly recognizable to speakers of English, Spanish, French, and other European languages. This helps learners build their vocabulary quickly without needing to start from scratch. In fact, you arleady know a lot of Esperanto’s vocabulary! Read more about Esperanto’s familiar vocabulary.
The Esperanto Society of Chicago creates opportunities to connect with each other to facilitate learning and using the international language, Esperanto.
4. Fastest Path to Fluency
Studies have shown that Esperanto can be learned up to ten times faster than national languages. Many learners achieve conversational fluency within a few months, compared to years of study required for languages like Japanese or Arabic. And you are not on your own. The Esperanto Society of Chicago can help by providing opportunities to meet other Esperanto speakers, and participate in the world-wide Esperanto community. Read more about the Esperanto community.
5. A Great Gateway Language
Because of its simplicity, Esperanto is often recommended as a “starter” language for those who want to become polyglots. Studies have found that learning Esperanto first can make learning a third language easier. The structured grammar and logical vocabulary boost confidence and give learners a strong foundation for understanding language mechanics.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for the fastest way to learn a second language, Esperanto is the clear winner. With its simple grammar, logical structure, and easy vocabulary, it allows learners to reach fluency in a fraction of the time required for other languages. Whether you want to use it for international communication or as a stepping stone to learning additional languages, Esperanto is an excellent choice for any aspiring polyglot.
Interested in learning Esperanto?
Consider attending one of our free events. Or get started fast at the online Esperanto in 12 Lessons course. The online courses at Lernu and Duolingo are also good places to start.