Should you focus on one language or dabble in many? In short, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on your motivation, needs, and circumstances. Regardless, in this post, I’ll share insights from my own language-learning journey to help you decide which approach might work best for you.

The Case for Mastering One Language

Unlimited Growth in a Single Language

Let’s begin by establishing that there is no upper limit to how proficient you can become in a language. Whether it’s your native tongue or a language you’re learning, there’s always room to grow—expanding your vocabulary, expressing yourself in a more refined manner, and deepening your comprehension. Language learning can be a truly infinite endeavor.

When One Language Deserves All Your Attention

There are a handful of situations in which one language is the clear priority and requires intense, undivided focus. Examples include:

  • Living Abroad: If you’re studying or working in a new environment with a new language, you’ll likely need a high degree of fluency to thrive. It makes sense to prioritize developing a large vocabulary and strong comprehension skills in one language.
  • Family Connections: Perhaps you’ve married into a family that speaks another language. This can be a strong motivator to fully immerse yourself in one language, as the goal is to participate in conversations and connect with loved ones.
  • Cultural Passion: Language learning is a more enjoyable (and often more successful) undertaking when it aligns with your personal, academic, or professional interests. A deep interest in a region’s history or culture might inspire you to focus on its language, aiming for as much proficiency as possible.

In my own experience, for example, I needed to focus on just one language when learning French. Despite piqued curiosity during travels in Spain, Italy, and Germany, success in my studies demanded a strong grasp of French. I wrote exams, attended classes, and navigated daily life entirely in French. This demand for a high level of fluency called for my full attention.

The Joy of Exploring Multiple Languages

Broadening Horizons

Learning multiple languages allows you to establish a connection with multiple cultures. Even a basic understanding of a language can enrich your travel experiences, your cultural awareness, and facilitate meaningful interactions with others.

Low-Hanging Fruit—A Tempting Challenge

Studying languages related to ones you already know will likely feel easier to learn and give you a boost of confidence. For example, moving from Spanish to Portuguese might seem straightforward. Whether you’re drawn to another language through curiosity or simply the idea of picking up another language without difficulty, it’s enriching to dabble.

While focusing on Mandarin during a government assignment in Hong Kong, I began exploring other languages like Japanese and Korean. Even though I didn’t achieve the same level of fluency in all of these languages, it was nonetheless a gratifying experience. Each language offers its own unique rewards.

The Middle Ground

Not All Languages Require the Same Level of Fluency

I have different goals with different languages. Depending on my own circumstances, I may need to push myself to reach an advanced level of fluency in certain languages. However, for some languages, I’ve plateaued at a B1 level—enough to understand and communicate but not with complete fluency. I most likely had specific, circumstantial goals with these languages, such as short-term travel or personal curiosity.

Currently, I speak a handful of languages comfortably and with a high level of fluency. In French, Spanish, Japanese, and Mandarin, I can engage deeply in conversations and have a high level of cultural understanding.

On the other hand, I’ve had to set other languages aside before achieving a more advanced level. And that’s okay! For example I’ve set languages like Korean, Greek and Romanian aside, but I know I can return to them when the need or desire arises. I’ve found that refreshing and building on what I’ve already learned is always an option.

Final Thoughts

Whether you master one language or embrace the challenge of many, the most important thing is to enjoy the experience. Motivation and enjoyment are your best guides. I’ve taken several languages. In the end, there is no “right” way to approach language learning. Your journey can be shaped by your circumstances, interests, and goals.