What Language Do They Speak in Greenland?

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Greenland

Greenland, the world's largest island, is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, located between the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans. Its vast landscape is mostly covered in ice, with dramatic fjords and minimal inhabitable land where a small, largely indigenous Inuit population resides. While the capital, Nuuk, holds a significant portion of the population, much of Greenland consists of remote settlements, fostering a culture deeply connected to the unique Arctic environment.

Languages Spoken

Greenland is a fascinating linguistic tapestry, primarily woven with Greenlandic, the dominant language spoken by the majority—93%—of its population. Greenlandic (Kalaallisut) is an Eskimo-Aleut language intimately linked to the cultural identity of the native Inuit people. Danish, spoken by about 6% of the population, reflects Greenland's historical ties with Denmark. English, although only spoken by about 1% of the population, is growing due to global influences and tourism.

Different Languages Spoken in Greenland

Language data last updated 2024 est. from Wikipedia - Greenland

LanguageUsage
Greenlandic93%
Danish6%
English1%
Note: The total may add up to more than 100% as people may speak multiple languages

Useful Greenlandic Phrases

Learn these phrases if you're planning on traveling to Greenland

Aluu

Hello

A common greeting similar to 'Hi' or 'Hello'.

Qanoq ippit?

How are you?

Used to inquire about someone's well-being.

Qanoq akeqarpa?

How much does it cost?

Useful for shopping or dining when asking about prices.

Sumiippa?

Where is...?

Used to ask for directions to a specific location.

Qujanaq

Thank you

A polite expression of gratitude, similar to 'Thanks'.

Learn to speak Greenlandic

Interested in speaking Greenlandic in Greenland? Using Lingocat you can learn the basics of the language and start speaking in no time with the help of our AI Language Tutors.

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