Which languages are most useful for mathematics and physics research?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the most beneficial languages for mathematics and physics research, highlighting that graduate programs often require proficiency in French, German, or Russian, rather than Mandarin. Participants emphasize the importance of immersion in language learning, particularly for tonal languages like Mandarin, and suggest that Spanish is also valuable due to its prevalence in the U.S. The consensus indicates that while Mandarin has its merits, languages with closer ties to European academic traditions, such as French and German, are more advantageous for research purposes.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of graduate program language requirements in mathematics and physics.
  • Familiarity with language learning methodologies, especially for tonal languages.
  • Knowledge of the cultural and academic significance of French, German, and Russian in scientific literature.
  • Awareness of the linguistic landscape in the U.S., particularly regarding Spanish and Mandarin.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the language requirements for specific mathematics and physics graduate programs.
  • Explore effective methods for learning tonal languages, focusing on Mandarin.
  • Investigate the role of French and German in scientific publications and their historical significance.
  • Learn about the linguistic diversity in major U.S. cities to enhance language learning opportunities.
USEFUL FOR

Graduate students in mathematics and physics, language learners interested in academic proficiency, and educators advising students on language selection for research purposes.

  • #31
I'm studying Japanese and I can understand simple chinese sentenese, korean (if chinese characters are used). It's really enjoyable to study the characters. If I have time, I want to know about 10,000 characters.
 
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  • #32
Irish is a really fun language to learn. Starting Irish will be very tough. However it gets a lot easier. You can even listen to pronunciation on RTE's internet radio.

LostYourName, you have to be one of the only other people I know who learned Cherokee. As a child I grew up around Tahlequah OK so my school was about 80% Cherokee. I had Cherokee lessons from 3rd grade until Jr. High. I personally did not like the language. I was really young so any second language probably seemed pointless to me. I can't say I suggest Cherokee though.

Irish would be the easiest language to learn, with correct pronunciation, for bragging rights. However it is not too dead. On the islands just off of western Ireland the traffic signs are pure Irish. However it is dead enough to rock. And in my opinion the coolest sounding language.
 
  • #33
latin and greek ..
well math and physics has a lot of it i know for med school they prefer latin ..
 
  • #34
Andre said:
Ich glaube, daß die Deutsche Sprache viel zu viel unausprechliche Vokalen für die Angelsachsen hat.
Das stimmt...

La langue Française avec une instructrice personnelle aura la préférence

Bon, mais je voudrais voir cette instructrice avant de commencer.

Hoewel, Nederlands mag natuurlijk ook
Mooi zo, zo hoor ik het graag. Nederlands is echter vrij moeilijk aan te leren, vergeet dat niet


marlon
 
  • #35
Oooooohhhh, that isn't about learning second langugea but third language :wink:
 
  • #36
djeipa said:
Oooooohhhh, that isn't about learning second langugea but third language :wink:

Dutch is my native language :wink:

marlon
 

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