Spanish is the language that Scots would like to speak fluently, according to a new survey.
Over half (52%) chose Spanish as their most desired language, ahead of French (32%), while German and Italian were also popular.
Travel is the biggest motivation when it comes to learning a foreign tongue, with over one in four (27%) Scots saying preparing for a trip
abroad would inspire them.
The study by language learning experts Rosetta Stone found that one in five (21%) Scots would be motivated by personal challenge and simple enjoyment.
The survey of 2,100 people revealed that a lack of confidence and long-held beliefs were deterrents.
Some 92% of Scots said they believed some people were naturally better at languages than others, while 34% admitted a lack of confidence held them back. One in five (21%) questioned felt “too old” to pick up a new skill.
While 60% across the UK said they had used or plan to use AI or translation tools to learn a language, in Scotland just 28% said they
already use AI tools, and 46% said they would not use them, with just 26% saying they were considering it.
Jason Brickey of Rosetta Stone said: “We’ve long known that speaking another language opens doors and strengthens relationships… That
said, mindset is crucial.
“We firmly believe that anyone can learn any language with enoughtime, practice, and support.”
