* Defining a language is complex: What counts as a distinct language versus a dialect is a matter of debate.
* New languages emerge and others die out: Language evolution is ongoing, and new languages emerge while others become extinct.
* Data collection is difficult: It's hard to gather accurate data on all languages, particularly in remote or less documented areas.
However, estimates from linguists suggest there are between 6,000 and 7,000 languages spoken around the world.
Keep in mind, this number is constantly changing, and the exact figure is difficult to determine.