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Hundreds of HKU undergraduates have over the years enrolled in the French programme, thus contributing to make French a very popular subject at the University. Here are some of their reasons >>>>
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• The
study and experience of a new language and culture increase
our self-confidence and ability to communicate with, and
better understand, people of different background. |
• The
French language shares many linguistic and lexical features
with other major European languages, such as Italian, German,
Portuguese, Spanish and of course, English, the world language
today. The study of French helps us to better understand
and perform in other languages. |
• French
culture, the history of France have inspired many intellectuals,
artists and scholars worldwide. Today, the position of France
as a key cultural, political and economic state remains strong and
influential. |
• French
is spoken in several European countries and in various parts
of the world. It is the official language in major world
organizations. French is taught at school as first or second
foreign language in many countries. There is a growing and thought-provoking French-speaking literature originating from the Francophone world. |
• France
plays a leading role in the ongoing construction process
of Europe, an increasingly significant partner for Asia.
As French is widely spoken across the continent, traveling
or studying there is greatly facilitated. |
• A
good knowledge of the French language and culture enhances
our profile and prospects in terms of professional career
and further studies abroad, notably in France and Europe.
Versatile communicators are also in demand in the corporate
sector worldwide. |
• A
good command of French makes the experience of a trip to
France definitely more rewarding. French people in France
are highly appreciative of visitors who take the trouble
of communicating with them in French. |
• Studying
French, however challenging it might be, allows us to look
at this country beyond the traditional image of France as
a romanticized place and a leading provider of fine fashion
and cosmetics. |
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> read a comprehensive argument by Robert D. Peckham as to why knowing French is important
> French is the second of the world's ten most influential languages after weighing six factors (number of primary speakers, number of secondary speakers, number and population of countries where used, number of major fields using the language internationally, economic power of countries using the languages, and socio-literary prestige)
The World Speaks French website |