An answer to several threads about Spanish speaking countries

Question

There have been several questions posted in the last few days regarding Spanish speaking countries.

This chart gives us all the Spanish speaking countries by population of Spanish speakers.

One very interesting observation is that the U.S. has more Spanish speakers than Spain itself. Keep in mind though that in the U.S. they are from all over the Spanish speaking world.

Now just imagine the diversity of all the nations listed, and the possible variations of the language between the nations and regional differences within them.

It is little wonder that we can get confused about specific words and usages.

This reinforces the fact that if we learners do not live in a Spanish speaking country that we surely will encounter a communication issue from time to time.

For those of us learners living in Spanish speaking countries it seems best to learn the rules of the language and then to learn the particularities of our region.

It is interesting also to note that the Phillipines is not listed in this chart although Spanish was its official language at one time.

Going by your chart, then, I certainly live in a Spanish speaking country (US). Why am I still encountering communication issues? - 0074b507, Jun 5, 2011

Diversity of speakers in the U.S. I think - pacofinkler, Jun 5, 2011

You must not be talking to the right people :) - Sabor, Jun 5, 2011

muy interesante!! :) - 001a2987, Jun 5, 2011

Answer 1

I bet the Catholic Kings never dreamed that their activities would create such a monster, and that the monster will turn the language to its own needs.

No doubt, power comes always with a price.

Answer 2

Interesante