If you haven’t already decided that this year you’ll learn to speak Italian, then here are ten reasons why you should consider it!
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Derived from the language of the Roman Empire, Italian is the most romantic of the romance languages. With most words ending in a vowel and a cadenced sentence structure, it has a musicality that makes it quite a simple language to comprehend and to speak.
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Italian film director Federico Fellini once said, “A different language is a different vision of life.” Speaking the language will give you a greater understanding of the country and its culture.
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In spite of the current economic situation, according to the United Nations ranking of the worlds’ wealthiest countries, Italy is consistently ranked within the top ten, making it an ideal country for overseas investment, and international companies are always looking for staff with a command of their host country’s language.
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Unesco rated Italy as having more sites of historical importance than any other country and, with almost 60% of the world’s arts treasures, speaking the language opens you up to a richer experience and understanding of its art and history.
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Whether it’s ordering food in a restaurant in Naples, or haggling in one of Milan’s street markets, having a working knowledge of the language not only enriches your holiday experience, but could save you a few euros.
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Speaking a foreign language improves the functionality of your brain, boosting your problem solving abilities and improving your memory. Some studies have concluded that adults who are multi-lingual can reduce the first signs of dementia by on average 4.1 years.
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If you are planning to buy a property in Italy, speaking and being able to read Italian can help you in so many ways. No need for costly translation services or paying external agencies to arrange your building work, and of course, speaking his language means you can keep tabs on the builder.
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Speaking another language is a great way to meet new people. Being able to communicate with local people while you are in Italy can open you up to friendships you’d have missed out on previously.
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You’ll be able to tell people that you have become a polyglot (a person who speaks more than one language); also knowing one romance language increases your ability to learn another.
- Finally, reason ten is simple… it’s fun.
Are you ready to start learning? Check our Language Section: we have tips, lessons, dual language articles and more!
