5 Hardest Languages To Learn For English Speakers

4. Japanese  

Insider Monkey Score: 4 

Japanese, spoken by 128 million people in Japan, is considered one of the most challenging languages for English speakers. Its complex writing system, including tens of thousands of characters called “kanji,” and the emphasis on respectful speech pose significant difficulties. Vocabulary differs significantly from English; grammar introduces unfamiliar concepts such as measure words, particles, and honorifics. While pronunciation aligns with English for the most part, mastering Japanese requires dedicated effort due to its intricate writing system and grammar.