Why should the Japanese study English?

English is taught in Japan as a compulsory subject from junior high school. And it has decided to be a subject in elementary school for 5th and 6th grade students from 2011. But why should the Japanese study it? It is generally believed that English is a very useful language and spoken worldwide.

As we know, English is widely used as a common language in the world. For instance, we will see English in public places such as at stations, airports and hotels etc. In addition, English also occupies a high share on the internet. Therefore, when we want to obtain some exact information, it is necessary for us to understand it.

Moreover, it is said that English ability maybe guarantees a better job. According to the survey, about 67% of people answered that English skill is practical for their career development. Nowadays, Japanese business has been expanded worldwide. That is why some Japanese are so obsessed with learning it.

Finally, English is used in order to know/understand other cultures. If we can enough communicate in English, we will make foreign friends as well as discuss the matters with them equally.

As stated above, each person has a different purpose for studying English. However, acquiring English will make it possible to broaden our horizons and help us at anywhere and anytime in the world. Thus, we should study it.