Here's a breakdown:
If you already know English:
* German: English and German share a fair amount of vocabulary and grammar, so it can be easier to pick up the basics.
* French: French is a Romance language, so if you know Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, or Romanian, you'll likely find similarities in grammar and vocabulary.
If you know other Germanic languages (like Dutch, Swedish, Norwegian, etc.):
* German: The similarities in grammar and vocabulary will give you a head start.
If you know other Romance languages (like Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Romanian, etc.):
* French: The similarities in grammar and vocabulary will make learning French easier.
Other Factors to Consider:
* Your personal interests: Do you enjoy German literature? Are you fascinated by French cinema? Learning a language that aligns with your interests will make the process more enjoyable.
* Your learning style: Are you more comfortable with structured learning, like grammar exercises, or do you prefer immersion and exposure to the language through movies and music?
* Your time commitment: Learning a language takes time and effort. Are you willing to dedicate a significant amount of time to studying?
In Conclusion:
The "best" language to learn for German or French is the one that best suits your individual needs and circumstances.
If you're unsure, try taking a beginner's course in both German and French to see which one you find more engaging and accessible.