Mandarin is rather unique in terms of popular languages. While most popular languages follow certain rules, Mandarin vocabulary contains a number of special traits which can make it difficult for many people to pick up. One of the biggest differences is that the vocabulary is heavily altered by something known as tones. This has also influenced Mandarin vocabulary to be more polysyllabic than the majority of other languages which arose in the same general region. Mandarin is extremely useful to anyone who has an interest in the culture of China. This includes both classical and modern literature, cinema, and the continually growing economy. Given that China has long been a cultural super power, and is an economic one as well, there's a vast amount of potential benefit to learning Mandarin.
