* Second Language vs. Minority Language: "Second language" usually implies that people primarily speak a different language and learn German as a secondary language. In contrast, a "minority language" is spoken by a smaller group within a larger population that speaks a different dominant language.
* German as a Minority Language: German is spoken by minorities in various regions around the world, including:
* Europe: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Hungary, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
* North America: United States (especially Pennsylvania and Wisconsin), Canada, and Mexico.
* South America: Brazil and Argentina.
* Africa: Namibia and South Africa.
* Asia: China, Kazakhstan, and Russia.
Therefore, it's more accurate to talk about specific regions with significant German-speaking minorities.
If you're interested in learning more about specific regions, let me know which areas you're curious about!