* Defining a "language" is complex: There's no clear-cut distinction between a language, a dialect, and a language family. Some languages are mutually intelligible, while others are very different.
* Language diversity is constantly changing: Languages are constantly evolving, dying out, and emerging. New languages can form through creolization or through the isolation of communities.
* Data collection is difficult: Many languages are spoken by small, isolated groups, making it challenging to accurately count them.
However, estimates range widely:
* UNESCO estimates: There are around 7,100 languages spoken worldwide.
* Ethnologue: Lists over 7,100 languages, but this number includes many that are no longer spoken.
* Other estimates: Some linguists believe the actual number could be closer to 10,000.
The key takeaway is that the number of languages in the world is incredibly vast and constantly shifting.