Hoi,
I would say something different. Typically SQL is something I would not touch with a barge pole. At the same time it is used in so many tools that make use of SQL behind the scenes. I do not care really what flavour of SQL is in use, the proof of the pudding is in the eating.
The same holds for SPARQL. I do not care to learn another language. For SPARQL to be relevant it needs to be embedded in tools that provide a function. To be brutally honest WDQ is useful BECAUSE it is used in tools. On its own it is interesting but hardly of interest.
I do understand the need for open standards but it is like so many other standards, it is in the implementation that it has its merit. They are the tools, that is what I am looking for.
Thanks,
Gerard