Why Do People Learn Languages?
The journey to learn a new language often begins with excitement and big dreams—speaking fluently in a bustling foreign market or impressing friends with newfound skills. But not every motivation is created equal. A Reddit thread sparked by user u/died_suddenly posed a provocative question: What’s the worst reason you’ve heard for someone learning a foreign language? The responses were as hilarious as they were revealing, shining a light on motivations that range from quirky to downright misguided. Let’s dive into the worst reasons people embark on this challenging but rewarding journey, exploring why some motivations might set learners up for frustration—or even failure.
The Ego Trap: Learning to Impress Others
Seeking Internet Clout
Reddit users were quick to call out one of the top misguided reasons: learning a language to flex on social media. Imagine spending months studying Japanese just to post a single tweet in kanji to impress strangers online. While the internet loves a polyglot, this shallow motivation often fizzles out when the likes stop rolling in.
Bragging Rights at Parties
Some learners pick up a language purely to drop phrases like “Oh, I’m conversational in French” at social gatherings. One Redditor shared a story of a friend who learned basic Italian to seem cultured at wine tastings—only to abandon it once the novelty wore off. Ego-driven goals like these lack the depth needed for long-term commitment.
Romantic Misadventures: Learning for Love (or Lust)
Chasing a Crush
A surprisingly common reason to start learning a language is to impress a romantic interest. One Reddit user recounted their cousin studying Portuguese because of a Brazilian crush, only to give up when the relationship fizzled. While love can be a powerful motivator, tying language learning to a fleeting romance often leads to heartbreak—and abandoned flashcards.
The “Exotic” Appeal
Some learners are drawn to a language because they fetishize the culture or its people. Reddit threads highlighted folks studying languages like Korean or Spanish to “get closer” to an idealized version of a culture they saw in dramas or movies. This superficial drive rarely sustains the effort needed to master grammar or vocabulary.
Career Missteps: Misguided Professional Goals
Learning for a Job That Doesn’t Require It
Some people start learning a language thinking it’s a golden ticket to a dream job, only to realize it’s unnecessary. A Redditor shared how they slogged through Mandarin lessons for a tech role, only to find their employer valued coding skills over language fluency. Misjudging a job’s requirements can waste time and energy.
Overestimating Career Boosts
While bilingualism can enhance a resume, some overestimate its impact. One user described a colleague learning German to “stand out” in a field where it was irrelevant, like local retail. Without a clear professional need, the effort can feel like chasing a mirage.
Cultural Misunderstandings: Learning for the Wrong Reasons
Stereotyping a Culture
Reddit users pointed out learners who pick a language based on stereotypes—like studying French to seem sophisticated or Japanese for anime obsession. These motivations often lead to disappointment when the learner realizes the culture is far more complex than their assumptions. Real cultural appreciation requires deeper engagement than a surface-level fascination.
To “Fix” a Culture
In rare but eyebrow-raising cases, some learn a language to “correct” or critique a culture they misunderstand. One Redditor mentioned a coworker studying Arabic to “debate” locals on political issues—an approach that’s both impractical and misguided. Language learning should foster connection, not conflict.
The Bandwagon Effect: Following Trends
Pop Culture Hype
The rise of K-pop, anime, or telenovelas has spurred many to learn languages like Korean, Japanese, or Spanish. A Reddit user admitted to starting Korean because of BTS, only to lose interest when the fandom faded. While pop culture can spark curiosity, it’s a shaky foundation for the long haul of language mastery.
Social Pressure
Peer pressure can also drive poor decisions. One user shared how their friend group all started learning Swedish because one member studied abroad in Stockholm. Most quit within weeks, proving that external pressure rarely sustains the grind of language learning.
Practical Pitfalls: Unrealistic Expectations
Expecting Instant Fluency
Some learners dive in expecting to speak like a native in months. A Redditor laughed about a friend who thought three months of Spanish would make them fluent for a trip to Mexico. Unrealistic timelines lead to frustration when progress feels slow, causing many to abandon their studies.
Underestimating the Effort
Language learning is a marathon, not a sprint. One user shared how they started Russian thinking it would be “fun and easy” after watching a movie, only to be overwhelmed by the Cyrillic alphabet. Underestimating the time and effort required is a recipe for burnout.
Comparing Good vs. Bad Motivations
| Motivation Type | Good Reasons | Bad Reasons |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Growth | Deepening cultural understanding, personal challenge | Ego boost, social media clout |
| Career | Specific job requirements, global opportunities | Vague resume padding, irrelevant skills |
| Relationships | Building meaningful connections, family ties | Chasing a crush, superficial attraction |
| Travel | Enhancing travel experiences, local immersion | Short-term trips, overreliance on apps |
This table highlights how motivations rooted in genuine interest or practical needs tend to sustain learners, while shallow or external drivers often lead to abandonment.
Pros and Cons of Learning a Language for the Wrong Reasons
Pros
- Initial Spark: Even bad reasons can kickstart the process, exposing learners to new cultures.
- Skill Exposure: Some language exposure is better than none, even if abandoned early.
- Social Benefits: Bragging or impressing others might lead to new connections.
Cons
- Burnout Risk: Shallow motivations rarely sustain long-term effort, leading to frustration.
- Wasted Resources: Time, money, and energy spent on classes or apps go to waste.
- Missed Opportunities: Focusing on the wrong reasons can distract from meaningful goals.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Why do some people fail at learning a foreign language?
Many fail due to lack of motivation, unrealistic expectations, or inconsistent practice. Reddit users often cite starting for superficial reasons—like impressing others—as a key factor. Sustained effort requires a personal or practical “why” to stay committed.
Is it worth learning a language just for travel?
For short trips, apps like Google Translate often suffice, making language learning less critical. However, learning basic phrases can enhance cultural immersion and local interactions. It depends on how deeply you want to engage with the destination.
Can you learn a language just for fun?
Absolutely, but fun alone may not sustain you through tough grammar or vocabulary drills. Reddit users suggest pairing fun with a tangible goal, like watching foreign films without subtitles, to maintain momentum. Personal enjoyment works best when tied to a purpose.
What’s the hardest part of learning a new language?
The hardest part varies, but Reddit threads often mention grammar, pronunciation, or staying motivated. Misguided reasons, like learning to impress others, can make these challenges feel insurmountable, leading to early dropout.
How to Spot a Bad Reason Before You Start
Self-Reflection: Ask the Right Questions
Before diving into a language, ask yourself: Why am I doing this? If the answer is tied to external validation—like impressing a crush or boosting your ego—reconsider. Reddit users suggest focusing on intrinsic goals, like personal growth or cultural curiosity, for lasting motivation.
Test Your Commitment
Try a free app like Duolingo for a month to gauge your interest. One Redditor shared how they tested Japanese with free resources before committing to paid classes. If you lose steam quickly, your reason might not be strong enough to carry you through.
Align with Long-Term Goals
Ensure your reason aligns with your life’s priorities. If you’re learning Spanish for a one-week trip but have no deeper interest, you might quit early. Instead, tie it to a bigger goal, like connecting with Spanish-speaking family or enjoying Latin American literature.
Best Tools for Language Learning (Transactional Content)
If you’re motivated by the right reasons, here are some top tools to support your journey:
- Duolingo: Free, gamified lessons for beginners. Great for building vocabulary.
- Anki: Customizable flashcard app for memorizing words and phrases.
- italki: Connects you with native tutors for personalized lessons.
- Pimsleur: Audio-based courses for improving speaking and listening skills.
- Glossika: Focuses on sentence patterns for natural fluency.
These tools cater to different learning styles, so experiment to find what works best for you.
Where to Start Learning (Navigational Content)
- Online Platforms: Websites like Duolingo, Babbel, or Rosetta Stone offer structured courses.
- Community Resources: Check local libraries or community centers for free language classes.
- Language Exchange Apps: Tandem or HelloTalk connect you with native speakers for practice.
- Subreddits: Join communities like r/languagelearning for tips and motivation.
The Reality Check: What Reddit Teaches Us
Reddit’s discussions reveal a universal truth: language learning is deeply personal, and your “why” matters. I once tried learning German to impress a friend who studied abroad in Berlin. Two months in, I was drowning in verb conjugations and gave up—because my heart wasn’t in it. Contrast that with my later success learning Spanish to connect with my partner’s family. The difference? A meaningful, intrinsic goal kept me going through the tough days.
The thread also highlights the humor in our missteps. One user shared how they started French to “sound sexy” but quit when they realized native speakers didn’t swoon over their accent. These stories remind us to laugh at our mistakes while refining our motivations.
FAQ Section
Is it bad to learn a language just to impress someone?
It’s not inherently bad, but it’s risky. Reddit users note that external validation fades quickly, leaving you unmotivated. Tie your learning to a personal goal to stay committed.
How do I stay motivated when learning a language?
Find a purpose that resonates, like enjoying foreign media or connecting with locals. Reddit suggests setting small, achievable goals and celebrating progress to avoid burnout.
Can I learn a language without a strong reason?
You can, but it’s harder. Weak motivations often lead to dropout when challenges arise. A clear “why” helps you push through tough grammar or pronunciation hurdles.
What’s the fastest way to learn a language?
Immersion and consistent practice are key. Use apps like Anki for vocabulary, italki for speaking practice, and consume media in your target language daily for rapid progress.
Are some languages harder to learn than others?
Yes, languages farther from your native tongue (e.g., Arabic for English speakers) can be tougher due to grammar or writing systems. Reddit users emphasize that motivation trumps difficulty.
Final Thoughts: Finding Your True “Why”
Learning a foreign language is a journey of growth, connection, and discovery—but only if your reasons hold up. Reddit’s candid discussions remind us that shallow motivations, like chasing clout or a crush, often lead to frustration. Instead, anchor your efforts in something meaningful: a love for the culture, a career goal, or a desire to connect with others. By choosing a purpose that resonates, you’ll not only stay motivated but also find joy in the process. So, before you open that language app, ask yourself: What’s my real reason? Your answer will shape the journey ahead.