NEW DELHI: English is the most popular language in the world, as per a report by Duolingo, a language-learning platform. English tops the list in a record 135 countries — a 10 per cent increase from the previous year. The widespread demand for this language, as per the Duolingo Language report, is driven primarily by its importance in academic and professional contexts, with learners seeking to enhance their career prospects and access to global opportunities.
Hindi, however, continues to rise in prominence. With over 8.4 million learners studying Hindi on Duolingo, it ranks among the top 10 languages globally. This surge reflects not only the language’s growing importance in India but also its increasing appeal in international markets.
The report, released today, highlights the most popular languages studied, key motivations for learning, and how technology is transforming the way people learn languages worldwide.
Further, Duolingo’s report underscores the significant role of artificial intelligence and immersive technologies in reshaping language learning. In collaboration with YouGov, Duolingo surveyed over 1,000 Indian learners, revealing that 71 per cent of respondents are excited about using emerging AI technologies, including AI-powered personal tutors, chatbots and VR/AR immersive learning experiences.
The survey also showed that 63 per cent of Indians believe AI and machine learning will play a major role in the future of personalised education. This indicates a growing interest in how technology can enhance and tailor learning experiences for individuals, making language acquisition more effective and accessible.
The Duolingo Language Report 2024 also delves into why Indians are learning new languages. The primary reasons are personal and professional growth, with 55 per cent of respondents citing career advancement as a major motivation. Other key drivers include travel and cultural exploration (45 per cent), social interactions within global communities (42 per cent), and entertainment through movies, music, and games (40 per cent).
In a country as linguistically diverse as India, 46 per cent of learners report engaging in code-switching, often switching between languages mid-sentence in daily conversations. However, learners face challenges maintaining fluency across multiple languages, with 55 per cent of Indians struggling to find time for regular practice and often mixing up grammar or vocabulary between languages.
Agencies