"Which language to learn — English, German, or French?" The choice should be based on your goals, not on rumors about difficulty. But in short: English is almost always sensible to learn first — it's the most useful and at the same time one of the most accessible to start with.
English or German
English is easier to start with: no genders, cases, or complex declensions, and some of the vocabulary is already familiar from borrowings. German is harder at the beginning due to articles and cases, but it's read predictably. If the goal is maximum benefit and a quick start, the choice is English; it makes sense to add German as a second language — it becomes easier after English. The process itself is in the guide how to learn English.
English or French
Both are comparable in difficulty, but French pronunciation and reading can be intimidating, though it has no cases. English is more universal: it's the language of international communication, business, and the internet, so the return on investment is usually higher. Try how English feels:
Which to learn first
For most goals, English is the optimal first language: it opens up work, travel, and content, and once you've mastered it, it's easier not to spread yourself too thin. The main thing is not to tackle two new languages at once, but to bring one to a confident B1 level. The timeline is in the guide how quickly to learn English.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which language is easier — English or German?
English is easier to start with: no genders or cases, simple grammar. German has cases and articles, but predictable reading.
Which language to learn first?
Most often English: it's maximally useful and easier to get into, and then it simplifies learning related languages like German.
English or French — which to choose?
Depends on your goal. English is more universal and in demand; French is for Francophone countries and culture. They are comparable in difficulty.
Is it worth learning two languages at once?
It's better to bring one to a confident B1 than to be stuck at A1 in two. Spreading yourself too thin slows down both.
Will English help with other languages?
Yes. After English, related Germanic languages (German, Dutch) become easier due to shared vocabulary.
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