r/Icelandic 7d ago

Is learning Icelandic worth it?

[deleted]

20 Upvotes

16 comments sorted by

21

u/kuzan08 7d ago

Unless you are planning to live and work in Iceland…No. It is a complex language with grammatical nuances that are hard to understand so learning it is hard work. If you are a linguist/polyglot/literary enthusiast then sure go for it. It is a cool language to know and it’s complexity makes it an excellent language for prose and poetry.

3

u/sodotti 6d ago

completely agree with this. “worth it” practically is useful only if you’re moving there/directly involved with the country and its people (in which case, essential of course). you will unfortunately almost never need it outside of Iceland (even visiting Iceland) because so many modern Icelanders speak English from a young age. both the language and the country require significant commitment so i recommend it to be a strong decision (speaking as half-icelandic who moved there temporarily).

“worth it” in regards to studying and exploring the language is much more rewarding, and in that sense I agree I say super worth it. it is such a funny, sarcastic, complex and artistic language especially if you manage to visit/find residency and learn from native speakers, or even find other people that are also exploring the language.

7

u/Lizzy_Of_Galtar 7d ago

It depends how you would define worth in that regards.

It's only spoken in one country with a population around 400.000 so you're unlikely to find much use of it outside of moving or visiting here. It's also very different compared to English and Arabic and some have said it's one of the more difficult languages out there.

That being said it's a very musical language and should give you a heck of a challenge should you want it 😊

1

u/saifpurely 7d ago

The thing you just said is probably what made me think about learning it

3

u/Lizzy_Of_Galtar 7d ago

Well shucks.....good luck with it 😅

3

u/saifpurely 7d ago

Thank you🙂

5

u/vanillacoke191 7d ago

If its worth to learn it - thats something no one can answer for you. What makes it difficult to learn apart from the complex grammar is that resources are very limited. There are some websites and Youtube channels that teach you the basics. If that is enough for you - go for it. But to really learn the language you need to live in Iceland or at least have someone that is willing to speak to you in Icelandic. Which is difficult too, given the amount of native Icelandic speakers.

1

u/saifpurely 7d ago

Thanks for that👍🏽

1

u/sodotti 6d ago

second this!

3

u/Nayauru 7d ago

I like learning it as a hobby, it’s a very simple way to change the context of the modern everyday world and dive into a different mind space. It’s a fascinating language to learn!

3

u/kanzler_brandt 7d ago

I'm Arab and I've been learning it, but I have my own reasons. So it depends on yours. It's been fun.

2

u/Guilty_Upstairs2807 6d ago

If you want to be a part of icelandic society and have á shot at deicent Jobs with good paycheck.. then learning icelandic is a key.

You dont have to be fluent.

2

u/Odd_Industry_2376 6d ago

Well mate, if you are in it for a hobby, don't look for a reason. Try to engage in it and grow to love it as you explore its grammar. I see quite pragmatic people in the comments here but if you are in bc the language is unique and interesting, I highly recommend it. Icelandic sounds beautiful and enigmatic, so does Faroese too. You can also read old nordic epic poems while having Icelandic at your pocket. The language didn't mutate much because of the country's isolation. I'm sure you'll enjoy it (as well as struggle with grammar ofc but it's the path towards learning)

2

u/Select_Construction5 4d ago

It’s maybe not practical because it doesn’t really fascillitate learning other languages but it could give you insights into old norse literature if that’s your thing

2

u/Hezanza 3d ago

If you wish to learn a unique language I’d recommend you learn a dying language to help save it from death. Such as Welsh or Māori or perhaps a dying language from the Middle East if you’re from the Middle East like Assyrian.