For native English speakers:
* Pronunciation: German pronunciation can be more straightforward, with a more consistent relationship between spelling and sound. French, with its silent letters and nasal vowels, can be more challenging.
* Grammar: German grammar is complex, with four cases, three genders, and verb conjugation that depends on tense, mood, and person. French grammar is also complex, with a lot of verb tenses, but it has fewer cases and genders.
* Vocabulary: German shares a significant number of cognates with English, making it easier to pick up vocabulary. French also has cognates, but the influence of Latin is more prominent.
* Exposure: If you have more exposure to French through media, music, or culture, it might be easier for you to learn.
Other factors:
* Learning style: Some people find it easier to learn languages with more structure and rules, while others prefer more flexible languages.
* Motivation: If you are more motivated to learn German, you are more likely to succeed, even if it is considered more challenging.
Overall:
* German: Considered more challenging due to its grammar and pronunciation.
* French: Can be more challenging due to its pronunciation and verb conjugation.
Ultimately, the best way to determine which language is easier for you is to try learning both and see which one you find more enjoyable and engaging. You might find that one language is initially easier, but the other becomes more accessible as you progress.