Rising cross-border communication needs, globalization, and the expanding e-learning sector fuel the growth of the online language-learning industry.
Additionally, language learning has become a sought-after skill for employability, particularly among multinational companies seeking multilingual employees to enhance organizational benefits and broaden their customer base.
According to a report by Kings Research, the worldwide online language-learning market reached a value of $15.26 billion in 2022. It is anticipated to exhibit a compound annual growth rate of 13.74%, reaching $41.63 billion by the year 2030.
Read also: 10 African countries have very low proficiency in English – Report
Here are some online language learning apps that you might find helpful, duolingo, busuu, mondly, and beelinguapp.
These are the 5 easiest languages English speakers can learn online
Dutch
With a learning commitment of 600 hours, Dutch emerges as the most accessible language for English speakers. Part of the West Germanic language family, it holds the status of the official language in the Netherlands and serves as one of Belgium’s three official languages. Globally, it finds its voice among over 24.5 million speakers.
Read also: 10 Most spoken local languages in Africa
Afrikaans
Requiring a study investment of 600 hours, Afrikaans secures the second spot as the easiest language for English speakers to learn. It is a member of the West Germanic language family and boasts a speaker base of over 17.7 million individuals worldwide. Predominantly spoken in South Africa, Afrikaans also find their presence in other African nations, including Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Danish
Requires a 600-hour commitment to learn, Danish holds the status of Denmark’s official language and enjoys a global presence with approximately 5.6 million speakers. Classified within the East Scandinavian branch of North Germanic languages, Danish shares linguistic connections with other Scandinavian counterparts like Norwegian, Swedish, and Icelandic.
Read also: Top 10 countries with the most languages
Norwegian
With a learning duration of 600 hours, Norwegian, a member of the North Germanic family, holds the status of one of Norway’s official languages. Globally, it is spoken by a relatively modest number of around 5.3 million people. English speakers aiming to acquire Norwegian proficiency can expect to invest approximately 600 class hours in the learning process.
Swedish
Occupying the 5th position on the list, Swedish demands a learning commitment of 600 class hours for English speakers. Serving as the official language of Sweden and one of the two official languages of Finland alongside Finnish, Swedish boasts a global speaker base exceeding 13.1 million people.
