More than 2700 Languages of the World

In ancient times, various scripts were found on stone inscriptions, but scientists are still puzzled about exactly when humans learned to speak organized languages. Sign language began in Mesopotamia in the 4th century BC. Today, more than 2,700 languages are spoken worldwide, with nearly 7,000 different dialects or accents.

Indonesia has the highest number of languages, with about 365 spoken there. African countries have over a thousand languages. One of the most complex languages in the world is found in Spain; its Basque language is not related to any other language. After English, Mandarin is the most spoken language. New languages often emerge when different cultures meet.

In London alone, English is spoken in nearly 700 different accents. Somalia is the only country where the Somali language is spoken across the entire nation. In India, languages change by state and have many local variations. Even in Gujarati, there is great diversity, such as Kathiyawadi, Kutchi, and the specific dialects of North Gujarat.