In this article, we will take a look at the 5 countries with the best English accent in the world. If you would like to read our analysis of the language learning market, you can go directly to the 20 Countries With The Best English Accent in The World.
5. Norway
English Proficiency Index: 614
Norwegians have a clear and understandable English accent, incorporating both British and American English. Their strong command of English is attributed to the linguistic ties between English and Scandinavian languages, both of which belong to the Germanic language family. These factors have helped Norway achieve the 5th highest ranking on the English Proficiency Index.
4. Denmark
English Proficiency Index: 615
Given that English is a compulsory subject taught from the first grade in public elementary schools in Denmark, approximately 86% of the population is proficient in English as a second language. Danes are often recognized for their clear enunciation, and Denmark consistently ranks high on the English Proficiency Index
3. Austria
English Proficiency Index: 616
English is taught in Austrian schools and is commonly used as a second language in business communications. Due to its geographical location, Austria accommodates a variety of languages spoken by locals, including Croatian, Hungarian, and Slovenian. Hence, it ranks as one of the prominent English-speaking countries in Europe, with 73% of its population proficient in English.
2. Singapore
English Proficiency Index: 631
Singapore is ranked second in the English Proficiency Index. English was introduced to Singapore during British colonization when it became the official language. Over time, it gained popularity among the local Malay, Chinese, and Indian communities. Furthermore, Singapore serves as a major business hub where English is widely used as a language of communication. These factors contribute to Singapore’s high ranking in the list of countries with the best English accents in the world.
1. Netherlands
English Proficiency Index: 647
The Netherlands is known for having some of the best English accents and holds the top position in the English Proficiency Index. For the fifth consecutive time, the Dutch have earned the title of the best non-native English speakers globally, as per the EPI. The EPI 2023 labeled the English proficiency of the Netherlands as “very high.” English education is compulsory in Dutch schools for children aged 5 to 16, contributing to their proficiency. Additionally, the Dutch language shares many similarities with English, both being Germanic languages. While the official language in the country is Dutch, nearly 95% of the population is fluent in English.
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