I Understand English … Why should I Speak it?

That’s been the question in Indian minds ever since the British rule – but is the language really so important? Is any language not merely a ship that carries your message across? People often ask such questions about English Language. Here are a few reasons why you should be able to speak, read, and write English.

As far as languages go, English has had more than its share of ridicule – particularly in India. So the question is “Is it necessary to learn English at all?” The answer to that is a simple and unequivocal yes. The reason –  well here goes!

It is the most popular international language

You may well think you are in India (or any other part of the world) and have no intention to go anywhere else. Maybe so but can you really predict the future? Just look around you and see for yourself. You will surely find a neighbor or relative who has to visit an English speaking country, not necessarily by choice but perhaps to visit a close relative or for work. If you are not fluent in English, you would be completely dependent on others for communication.

It is the language of Science

True there are scientific papers in many other languages. But because English is the most spoken language around the world, you must have your paper either written or at least translated into English so that everyone can read it. And since it is your paper, who better to write or translate it than yourself?

It is the language of Technology

The internet for one and any computer for another – most technology and technological devices understand nothing but English. So knowing English well is a definite advantage if you want to use these devices. Oh you can use them even if you don’t know the language but the experience is not quite the same is it?

It opens up new doors

Job interviews these days are conducted with an international perspective in mind. The internet has opened up huge possibilities for collaborations. More and more business organizations are tying up with those in other countries. The ability to speak English fluently is a definite advantage in this scenario. You may lose out opportunities in a number of industries such as airlines, tourism, and hospitality to name a few. You are also likely to lose that promotion you’ve been eyeing simply because it requires interaction with foreign delegates. That’s a big no right?

For your Child’s Future

Admittedly English may not have been a very popular language choice in your heyday. But today – with the world a much smaller place – it has assumed great importance. Thanks to the likes of FB, kids these days interact not just with other children in their neighborhood, city, or country but with kids all over the world! They can learn a lot from these interactions – if they know the language of communication – English. So even if you did not learn English as a child learn it now with your children and help them make their own future bright and make the world a better place.

And last but not the least, learn it simply because you want to. English like any other language has its share of quirks. But then which language doesn’t? Your reasons for learning a language – or not – should be based – like anything else – on your need and desire and nothing else. So let’s learn English!