Can you list some examples of why English is one of the most confusing languages?

Answer 1

Can you list some examples of why English is one of the most confusing languages.

English is a complex and challenging but not impossible language to learn.

Spelling and pronunciation in English are a problem due to many irregularities.

Pronunciation is challenging because a word is not always dependent on its spelling.

English is not a phonetic language.

English is full of silent letters. there are 26 letters to form at least 44 sounds. (silent "b"-climb, silent "c" -ascent, silent "d"-handsome)

Spelling patterns are very unpredictable. There are so many combinations of vowels and consonants with many pronunciations. (vowel combination-au - fault, ua- squash, ai-praise) (vowel consonant combination-ow-cow, oy-boy)

Also, homonyms which are words that sound the same but mean different things cause a lot of confusion. (to,too,two cite,site,sight )

Grammar Rules do not always apply in English.

Idioms, slang, colloquialisms, ,figurative language in English are difficult to grasp because the literal sense is not the exact wording. (idioms-under the weather-means to be sick slang-hangry-hungry and angry at the same time, colloquialisms-raincheck-a promise to reschedule plans , figurative language-similes ,metaphors, personification ,hyperboles, oxymorons, etc.)

English can be a tough language to learn. But with lots of practice and time it can be done. English can be a fun, exciting language to learn!!

Answer 2

There are many examples of why English can be confusing for learners.

One thing, specifically, that makes English confusing is the existence of homophones. Homophones are words that are spelled and pronounced exactly the same but that have different meanings. The meaning of these words is best derived by looking at the word in the context of the sentence.

For example:

Fair

We went to the county fair, where we ate funnel cake and rode lots of fun rides.

~or~

Her complexion is quite fair.

Bow

The wrapped birthday present was topped with a giant yellow bow.

~or~

The battle was won when she pulled out her bow and shot an arrow into the heart of her enemy.

As I've already stated, there are many elements of English that can make it confusing. But, any confusion can be overcome when you learn from a good teacher/tutor.