
Did you know that French isn’t the only language spoken in France? While French is the official language, the country is home to a rich linguistic diversity with several regional and immigrant languages contributing to its cultural heritage.
If you’re planning to visit, study, or live in France, understanding its linguistic landscape can help you navigate conversations more effectively.
In this article, you’ll discover:
- The official language and its role in French society
- Regional languages like Breton, Occitan, and Alsatian
- Immigrant languages that influence modern France
Let’s explore the fascinating languages spoken across France and investigate how many languages are spoken in this country.
- 1. French: The Language of Elegance and Unit
- 2. Occitan: The Melody of Southern France
- 3. Breton: A Celtic Gem
- 4. Alsatian: The German Connection
- 5. Basque: A Linguistic Mystery
- 6. Corsican: Italian Connection
- 7. Arabic: A Widespread Influence
- 8. Portuguese
- 9. Italian
- 10. Vietnamese
- The Art of Small Talk
- Preservation of Regional and Minority Languages
- What Languages Are Spoken in France? A Recap
- FAQ
1. French: The Language of Elegance and Unit

French, or “la langue française,” is not just the official language of France that is spoken by native speakers, but a cornerstone of its identity. Since the Ordinance of Villers-Cotterêts in 1539, the national language French has been the language of administration, education, and law.
Today, it serves as a global language that is spoken by over 300 million people worldwide.
In France, speaking French isn’t merely about using the right words; it’s about embracing a certain rhythm and tone that reflects the elegance of the culture. The French take pride in their language and often consider it an integral part of their heritage.
Institutions like the Académie Française ensure that the purity and usage of French are maintained, introducing terms like “ordinateur” (computer) to resist the adoption of foreign words.
French culture values politeness, making it important to learn a few key phrases before visiting native speakers. Here are some everyday expressions that go a long way:
Essential French Phrases for Visitors

- “Bonjour” (Hello/Good morning) – A must for any interaction, be it with a neighbor, a shopkeeper, or a stranger.
- “Bonsoir” (Good evening) – Used after sundown.
- “Merci beaucoup” (Thank you very much) – Demonstrates gratitude.
- “Comment allez-vous?” (How are you?) – A polite conversation starter.
- “Excusez-moi” (Excuse me) – Useful when navigating busy streets or asking for assistance.
These phrases help bridge the gap between visitors and locals, making interactions more pleasant and culturally appropriate.
2. Occitan: The Melody of Southern France
While many people speak French, Occitan, spoken by native speakers in the southern France regions, has deep ties to medieval literature and troubadour poetry.
Known for its musicality, Occitan, as a native language, was once a prestigious language of the courts. Today, phrases like “Adieu” (Hello/Goodbye) retain a poetic charm, and festivals celebrate its literary heritage.
3. Breton: A Celtic Gem
Breton, the spoken language in Brittany, is one of the few Celtic languages in Europe among all linguistic diversity. Closely related to Welsh and Cornish, this celtic language is among the most spoken languages that carry the traditions of seafaring communities and Celtic mythology.
A friendly “Demat” (Good morning) reflects the resilience of this language.
4. Alsatian: The German Connection
In Alsace, Alsatian—a Germanic language—is a testament to the region’s unique history, having shifted between spoken languages French and German control over centuries.
Common phrases like “Wie geht’s?” (How are you?) reflects its ties to the German linguistic tradition among native speakers.
5. Basque: A Linguistic Mystery
Not among the widely spoken languages, the Basque spoken language, or Euskara, stands out as a linguistic enigma, unrelated to any other European language.
Spoken in the Basque Country, it is an essential part of local identity. Greetings such as “Kaixo” (Hello) showcase its distinctiveness.

6. Corsican: Italian Connection
Among the most widely spoken languages is Corsican. It is indeed a regional language among the most spoken languages that is spoken in France by native speakers, primarily on the island of Corsica. It is closely related to Italian, particularly the Tuscan dialect, due to historical influences.
Although French is the dominant and official language, Corsican is still used in local culture and education efforts to help preserve it.
7. Arabic: A Widespread Influence
Immigration has significantly shaped the linguistic landscape of France, particularly in urban areas. Communities from North Africa, the Middle East, and beyond have brought their languages, adding vibrant layers to French society.
Arabic, particularly dialects from Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia, is one of the most widely spoken foreign languages in France. Beyond spoken language, Arabic words have seeped into French slang, especially in younger, urban populations. For example:
- “Salam” (Peace/Hello) – A warm greeting used across many communities.
- “Shukran” (Thank you) – Expresses gratitude.
Arabic’s influence extends to French music, cuisine, and even fashion, highlighting the interconnectedness of language and culture among the most spoken languages.
8. Portuguese
Portuguese has been spoken in France for over a century, primarily by communities of Portuguese immigrants who arrived in the early 20th century. These communities have maintained their language through generations, contributing to the multicultural fabric of France.
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9. Italian
Italian is another native language with deep historical roots in France, brought by waves of Italian immigrants in the early 1900s. The Italian community, while not as large as others, has had a significant influence on French culture, especially in regions near the border with Italy.
10. Vietnamese
Among other languages, Vietnamese, introduced by immigrants from former French colonies in Southeast Asia, adds a unique cultural dimension to France’s linguistic landscape. Though it is less widespread than Portuguese or Italian, it plays an important role in reflecting France’s colonial past and its ongoing diversity.

The Art of Small Talk

Small talk in France among French people often revolves around shared interests, such as food, weather, or current events. Some common topics include:
- Weather: “Quel beau temps aujourd’hui, n’est-ce pas?” (What beautiful weather today, isn’t it?)
- Food: “Avez-vous goûté les croissants ici?” (Have you tried the croissants here?)
These conversations, though seemingly trivial, reflect the French preference for meaningful exchanges, even in passing.
Preservation of Regional and Minority Languages

Efforts to preserve France’s linguistic diversity and widely spoken languages have gained momentum in recent years. Bilingual education programs in regions like Brittany and the Basque Country aim to keep these languages alive among younger generations.
Festivals celebrating traditional music, dance, and literature also play a crucial role in promoting regional identities.
The European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages has provided a framework for France to support these languages, though the balance between national unity and regional identity remains a challenge.
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What Languages Are Spoken in France? A Recap
The linguistic landscape of the national language of France is as diverse and dynamic as its culture. From the elegance of the French language to the rich heritage of regional languages like Breton and Occitan, and the modern influence of immigrant tongues like Arabic and Portuguese, each language tells a story of identity, history, and community.
Whether exchanging a polite “Bonjour” or learning regional phrases like “Kaixo,” embracing the linguistic diversity of France allows for a deeper appreciation of its cultural richness. For travelers and language enthusiasts, these expressions are not just words but a gateway to the soul of France.
FAQ
No, while French is the official language, France is home to several regional languages like Breton, Occitan, Alsatian, and Corsican, as well as widely spoken immigrant languages such as Arabic, Portuguese, and Italian.
Some regional languages have cultural recognition, but French remains the only official language under the French Constitution. However, efforts are being made to preserve and promote these languages through education and local initiatives.