Quote Originally Posted by Korpg View Post
Actually, I don't think any American actually learns a foreign language in a beginner's level. Usually Language classes (at least in the state of Texas) are "blowoff" classes. Even in college, I don't think anyone really can remember their language class enough to be understandable in the native setting.

I think that the OP has a better understanding of English than most people in the world has of foreign languages.
Many people in europe are fairly good at English, especially those from medium sized countries. At least in the scandinavian countries, we start learning English at around the age of 9. I guess being constantly bombarded with english-speaking television and movies also helps. Dubbing isn't common outside of france, germany, and italy.

Of course, you are probably still correct in the "most people in the world" statement, considering how many illiterates you'll find in developing countries