What are five of the most common motivations for learning English?

English is used all over the world, making it a valuable language for people of all ages and professions to learn. Whether it is a student who wants to study abroad, a professional looking to go further in their career, or someone who is simply interested in learning, there are many different reasons to learn English. In this article, we explore some of the most common motivations for learning English and how it can help you achieve your personal and professional goals.

In 2023, there were an estimated 1.5 billion people worldwide who spoke English, either as their native language, or as a second language. That is a lot of people! As the most spoken language in the world internationally, English is an important communication tool, both in the workplace and in general life. By learning English, you could grow in your career, travel to new places, and make new connections. EF English Live offer several online professional English courses that are specifically designed to meet different learner needs.

Our Business English courses help learners attain a level of English that could have a significant impact on their career, while our Travel English courses aim to build your confidence to talk with locals, make friends, and come home with new memories.

EF English Live has devoted 27 years to the continuous improvement of our Efekta Method™. Using real-life scenarios and immersive roleplaying, we will have you speaking confidently from day one, preparing you for success at work, abroad, or wherever English takes you. Now, join us as we explore some common reasons to learn English...

Work is one of the most common reasons why people learn English. English is used across numerous industries and sectors globally, from fashion and finance to travel and tourism. Today, speaking English is a common requirement on job listings. So, if you want an international career and need to improve your English skills, our Business English course can help, no matter your native language.

If you need to take the TOEIC for work, take a look at our TOEIC Preparation Course. The course covers all sections of the TOEIC and takes you through exam strategies to help you get the TOEIC score you need.

If you want to study abroad and go to an English-speaking university, our TOEFL Preparation Course will give you all the knowledge, skills, and exam strategies to get the TOEFL score you need.

English can also improve your communication skills, another useful skill to have in the workplace. Mastering English can help you build working relationships, negotiate, and convey your message to different audiences.

Another reason people learn English is to travel. As an international language, English is spoken all around the world and can be a good common language for people from different countries.

Whether you are thinking of traveling in the future, or you have a trip planned already, our Travel English Course will help you get there faster. From navigating airports and checking in to hotels to asking for directions and chatting with locals – our course covers it all.

A simple reason to learn English is falling in love. Speaking a different language from your partner can cause difficulties with communication. Learning English because it is your partner’s native language will help you to easily share your thoughts and opinions. Why not teach them your native language in return?

Learning a language can really help you to become a part of that language’s culture by understanding its traditions and ways of life. Some people therefore learn English because they are interested in the English culture.

Learning advanced English will teach you more about tone of voice and body language. This will help you to determine the meaning behind things people say and what mood they are in.

Lots of people learn languages because it is fun! Being able to talk to people, make jokes, and make new friends is all part of the language learning journey. Plus, it opens up a new world of books, films, TV shows, and more.

Just like learning how to play a musical instrument, learning a new language also has lots of benefits for the brain, including concentration, problem solving, and memory. It is likely to improve your confidence and self-esteem, too.

Learning a new language is not easy – we get it. But if you want to learn English for good, it is important to stay motivated. Here are our top tips for keeping your focus:

• Set goals. Setting goals will motivate you to achieve them. An example goal could be dedicating 30 minutes to learning each day. The important thing is not to set too many goals at once.

• Learn at your own pace. Each learner has a different learning style – and a different schedule. Work out the best times for you to learn and do not compare yourself to others.

• Take private classes. Learning with one of our expert Efekta Teachers™ is sure to help you stay motivated. Group classes can also help to inspire you and you can learn from fellow learners along the way.

• Diversify your learning. Studying the same thing every day can quickly get boring. Use a variety of learning methods: games, quizzes, TV shows, radio, private classes, group classes, and language exchanges.

Learning English offers many benefits, for students, professionals, and anyone interested in English-speaking culture. Although we have outlined some of the most common reasons for learning English, every learner is different and has their own unique reasons for wanting to learn. And once you have learned English, it is a skill you will have for life. Whatever your motivations for learning English, EF English Live is here to support you in your learning journey.