How Language Shapes Thought: The Power of Multilingualism

The way we think is deeply intertwined with the languages we speak. As The New Yorker insightfully explains in the article How Much Does Our Language Shape Our Thinking, “Language shapes our sense of time, space, and even causality.” ¹ Learning multiple languages isn’t just about communication—it’s about transforming how we perceive, think, and connect with the world around us. At LanguageBird, we believe in the profound impact of language learning. Our personalized, one-on-one instruction not only helps students gain fluency but also equips them with cultural and cognitive tools to thrive in a globalized world.

Language as a Lens

Research highlighted by The New Yorker reveals that different languages influence how speakers perceive the world. For example, speakers of languages that emphasize spatial relationships, like Guugu Yimithirr (an Indigenous Australian language), use cardinal directions (north, south, east, west) instead of terms like “left” or “right” to describe location. This shapes how they think about space and orientation. Other languages might prioritize actions or emotions, impacting how speakers interpret events or express feelings. These linguistic differences shape how we organize thoughts and solve problems.

At LanguageBird, students don’t just learn grammar and vocabulary—they experience firsthand how language can shift perspectives. For example, while learning Spanish, students might explore Día de los Muertos and discuss how its symbols, like calaveras (decorative skulls), reflect the culture’s unique views on life and death. Our conversational, real-world approach allows learners to engage with these cognitive and cultural nuances, gaining a deeper understanding of the world.

The Cognitive Edge

Research has consistently shown that learning additional languages enhances cognitive abilities. From improved memory and problem-solving skills to sharper decision-making, multilingualism feeds the brain in ways that extend far beyond vocabulary.

Edutopia’s Christine Boatman shares that bilingualism makes executive functioning skills stronger. She cites a study done at the Vita-Salute San Raffaele University in Milan that concluded that “people who are bilingual have significantly more gray matter in the portion of their brain called the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). The ACC is one of the portions of the brain involved in executive functioning…Researchers conclude that by having more gray matter in this portion of the brain, people who are bilingual may have an easier time with executive functions, including decision-making, motivation, and emotional regulation.” ²

The Language Connects Foundation notes, “Decisions made in a second language are more reason-driven than decisions made in your first language.” ³ This objectivity and clear thinking are skills that benefit students academically and professionals in high-stakes environments.

Academic Success

Language learning fosters academic growth, with multilingual students often outperforming their monolingual peers. The enhanced attention control and analytical thinking that come from juggling multiple linguistic systems prepare learners to excel in their studies and beyond. Boatman shares that “several studies have shown a correlation between bilingualism and stronger mathematical abilities in students.”

Building Cultural Competency

“Language embodies the habits of a culture,” notes The New Yorker. Learning a new language is about more than words—it’s about understanding the values, traditions, and perspectives of its speakers. Janet Nicol, a linguistics professor at the University of Arizona, emphasizes, “It doesn’t hurt to learn another language at any age. It always opens up the possibilities to get exposed to a new culture.” ⁴

LanguageBird’s native-level instructors bring authenticity and cultural depth to every lesson. This cultural immersion helps students prepare for diverse opportunities, from studying abroad to navigating international business. It also fosters empathy and global awareness, equipping learners to connect meaningfully across cultures.

The LanguageBird Difference

At LanguageBird, we’re redefining language learning. Our programs are:

• Personalized and Flexible: Tailored to each student’s goals and schedule.
• Conversational and Practical: Focused on real-world applications for fluency and confidence.
• Culturally Immersive: Taught one-on-one by native-level instructors who provide authentic and enriching experiences.

Learning a new language with LanguageBird isn’t just about communication—it’s about transformation. Whether you’re aiming to advance academically, professionally, or personally, our courses open doors to a broader, more interconnected world.

Start your journey with LanguageBird and discover how language can reshape the way you think and connect with others.

1. Singh, M. (2024, December 23). How Much Does Our Language Shape our Thinking. The New Yorker. https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2024/12/30/how-much-does-our-language-shape-our-thinking

2. Boatman, c. (2023, February 24). Highlighting the Benefits of Being Bilingual. Edutopia. https://www.edutopia.org/article/benefits-being-bilingual/

3. 2025. The Benefits of Learning Languages. Language Connects Foundation. https://www.languageconnectsfoundation.org/connect-with-language/the-benefits-of-learning-languages

4. Rajalakshmi, N. (2024, February 20). Deeper Empathy is Only One Benefit of Being Multilingual. The University of Arizona. https://news.arizona.edu/employee-news/deeper-empathy-only-one-benefit-being-multilingual