French or Spanish. With millions of speakers around the globe, these two languages are top picks when it comes to learning a foreign language.
While both open doors to exciting personal and professional opportunities, you may find yourself wondering which one is better for your career, for business, or just more useful in general?
There are many factors to consider for you and your personal case. So today we’ll compare different points between French or Spanish to make the most informed decision.
Which one has a wider presence? FRENCH ✅
In terms of presence worldwide, French wins this section. French is spoken in 29 countries, while Spanish, in 21.
However, take into consideration where these countries are located to make up your mind. Most french-speaking countries are on the African continent (72 %) and in the European one (21 %). On the other hand, Spanish is focused on Latin America (90 %) and Europe (9 %).
The relevance of this location depends on your personal case. For instance, if you live in the States, Spanish is a more useful option for the high Hispanic population living there. While if you travel constantly to Quebec (Canada) or your dream is to study in France, French will be more useful for you.
Which one is better for business in the Americas? SPANISH ✅
Spanish beats French in this one by far.
First of all, 4 out of the 6 most influential and populated cities in Latin America speak Spanish: Mexico City, Monterrey, Buenos Aires and Bogotá represent over 53 million people (a massive potential market!) and over $730 billion USD.
Secondly, besides its relevance in the LATAM region, Spanish is the second most spoken language in the USA. Especially in frontier states such as California or Texas, Spanish has such a significant presence; therefore, it has become a great asset for business: whether to reach the Latino market, or to communicate with neighbors, employees or customers on a daily basis.
Spanish is also the language with the fastest growth: In 2024, the US was the fifth country with most Spanish speakers worldwide. But it will soon take the third place due to its outgrowing tendency, according to Alberto Colonello, a trends and prospective specialist.
Another big reason Spanish is a better choice than French for businesses: nearshoring.
Nearshoring is the practice of relocating business processes to nearby countries. In the Americas, Mexico is a prime nearshoring destination for many companies in the U.S. and Canada due to its proximity, similar time zones and cost savings. Also, because Mexico’s manufacturing sector is highly prepared, particularly in industries like automotive, electronics, and aerospace.
This nearshoring dynamic has created hybrid companies: workplaces where employees come from both countries. Now more than ever, American, Canadian and Mexican companies have a tight relationship. Therefore, learning Spanish enables better communication and helps navigate the local business environment more effectively.
We are reaching the era where Spanish will rise as one of the most relevant languages for businesses and global communication worldwide.
Alberto Colonello
Which one is better for business in Europe? IT’S A TIE! ⭕️
This one will depend on what exactly you’re looking for in your business or career path.
If you’re an employee looking for being able to work in different countries, French is the best choice. It’s spoken in several countries in Europe such as France, Belgium (Wallonia region), Switzerland (Romandy regions), Luxembourg and Monaco. Not only they advantage Spanish in quantity, but also in economic factors. Switzerland, for instance, has better salaries than Spanish-based companies, and a stronger economy with solid financial and banking sectors and a high GDP per capita.
However, if you’re a business owner / startup founder looking for where to establish, Spanish may be a better choice.
Spain has become major hot spots for establishing offices. It has a strategic location, well-developed infrastructure, and access to the broader European market, all while having flexible regulations, lower wages compared to many other countries in Europe (which might be advantageous for your company’s budget) and overall attractiveness.
Now, if you’re a digital nomad who can work from anywhere and whose salary doesn’t depend on which country you’re located in, Spanish is also a better choice. Spain has become one of the most popular spots for remote workers for its general nice weather, amazing and attractive cities and lower costs of living compared to other European countries such as Switzerland.*
* Take into consideration regulations on this matter are on the way. Having such high rates of remote workers and tourists has had a negative impact on Spaniards’ quality of life, cost of living and their housing market. Cities like Barcelona are now seeking to limit Airbnbs and housing aimed for tourists to protect their citizens.
Which one is better to make friends? SPANISH ✅ (In my opinion!)
Latin American and Iberian cultures are known for being warm, social, and welcoming. In Spanish-speaking countries, people tend to be more open to spontaneous conversations, group gatherings, and making new connections, even with strangers. Whether you’re at a café, a plaza, or a party, you’re likely to be included in conversations and invited to join activities. In contrast, cultures in French-speaking countries like France and Belgium are often more reserved, where friendships take longer to develop, and social circles can be harder to break into.
Don’t get me wrong. I know it’s not a rule; some people can be the exact opposite from what I’m describing. And ultimately, once again, it will depend on your goals
In summary…
French or Spanish? Both languages offer great advantages, and while I display arguments supporting both in this blog entry, at the end of the day, it will depend a lot on your own goals.
If by any reason you choose to go for Spanish, check out our online lessons plans, with a Spanish native speaker tutor!
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