Which languages are most useful for mathematics and physics research?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the usefulness of various languages for mathematics and physics research, particularly in the context of graduate programs that require proficiency in a second language. Participants explore different languages, their relevance, and personal experiences with language learning.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that many graduate programs in mathematics prefer languages like French, German, or Russian over Mandarin.
  • One participant suggests that learning Mandarin could provide access to Asian research papers, while questioning the naming conventions in mathematics.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of learning pronunciation and tones in Mandarin, suggesting that self-study may not be sufficient.
  • A participant shares their experience of studying Asian languages and suggests that immersion in the country of the language can be beneficial.
  • There are discussions about the practicality of learning languages like French and Spanish due to their prevalence in the U.S., especially for non-English speakers.
  • Some participants express differing views on the difficulty of various languages, with one arguing that Serbian is easy and provides a foundation for other Slavic languages.
  • There are mentions of Japanese and hieroglyphics, with participants sharing their experiences and thoughts on the complexity and enjoyment of learning these languages.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a variety of opinions on which languages are most useful, with no clear consensus on the best choice. Some favor European languages, while others advocate for Mandarin or other languages based on personal experiences.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the challenges of learning languages without immersion and the varying degrees of difficulty associated with different languages, particularly Asian languages compared to European ones. The discussion reflects personal preferences and experiences rather than definitive conclusions.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in pursuing graduate studies in mathematics or physics, language learners, and those exploring the intersection of language and research in STEM fields may find this discussion relevant.

  • #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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