Is English Learning Still Worth It in This Era of Translation Tools?

In this era, is there still a need to learn English? I have been wrestling with a question: as translation tools become increasingly convenient, is it still worth learning English (comparing the time cost with the benefits of not living in an English-speaking environment)?

There are numerous benefits to learning English: reading the original text directly, understanding tone, implicit assumptions, and limitations, leading to a more comprehensive understanding with less information loss since first-hand information is intact.

However, the downsides are quite practical: translation tools are too good, the trend is faster and more convenient, yet the frequency of using English in domestic life or work scenarios is not high, which results in relatively low learning efficiency and a high time cost.

For those with a solid foundation in English, using tools can help them proofread, trace the original text, and check tone and logic more quickly and accurately.

For those with a weaker foundation in English, they tend to rely more on tools and find it harder to notice where translations seem smooth but are actually off the mark.

Here are a few questions for everyone (feel free to choose one to answer):

What do you think is the biggest problem with translation tools now? Inaccuracy or inability to control tone?

What is your most essential scenario for using English? Reading papers, reviewing documents, or writing emails?

If you set a goal for the minimum viable English, what skills should it include? Reading? Listening?

Have you seen any translation that seems correct but is actually off the mark? Specific examples would be great for discussion (this question should be quite interesting).

Do you think the value of English will decline or rise in the next 3-5 years? Why?

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