As artificial intelligence tools like Google Translate and ChatGPT get smarter, many people are beginning to ask the question: Do I really need to learn another language? After all, if your device can instantly translate a conversation, isn’t that enough?
A recent article in the Financial Times argues otherwise, making a strong argument that while AI is impressive, it will never replace the human experience of learning a language (read the full story here).
More Than Just Words
Translation apps are wonderful for quick phrases or directions, but they can’t capture the nuance of humor, emotion, or cultural meaning. Think about a simple French phrase like “ça va”. Depending on the context, it could mean “How are you?”, “I’m fine,” or even just a casual “Hey.” No app can fully replicate the warmth in someone’s tone or the subtle meaning behind a phrase that carries centuries of cultural weight.
The Human Connection
As a French language researcher, I’ve seen how language learning opens doors to relationships. Sitting in a Paris café and chatting with the waiter in French is a completely different experience than pointing at your screen. When you speak someone’s language, you’re not just exchanging information—you’re showing that you value their culture and identity.
Lasting Benefits
Beyond travel and connection, learning a language like French brings deep intellectual and personal rewards. Studies show it sharpens memory, improves focus, and even helps delay cognitive decline. It also deepens our understanding of our own language. When you grasp how French verbs change with context, you begin to see English grammar in a new light.
As the Financial Times points out, bilingualism is more important than ever. Today, we need more than translations—we need understanding. And that comes only through learning and living a language ourselves.
Final Thought
Technology is a gift, but it’s not a substitute for human connection. If you’ve been tempted to rely on AI instead of learning French, I encourage you to reconsider. By studying the language, you’re not just learning vocabulary. You’re stepping into a new culture, building empathy, and expanding your world in ways no app can replicate.
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