What Language Do They Speak in Mauritius?
Mauritius
Mauritius is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, renowned for its stunning beaches, blue lagoons, and vibrant coral reefs. Apart from its natural beauty, the country is known for its rich biodiversity, including the famous extinct dodo bird, and houses several national parks and nature reserves. As a culturally diverse nation, Mauritius boasts a blend of Indian, African, Chinese, and French influences, resulting in a unique multicultural tapestry that is reflected in its cuisine, festivals, and daily life.
Languages Spoken
Mauritius is a linguistically diverse island nation where multiple languages are spoken regularly. The most widely spoken language is Mauritian Creole, which is the mother tongue for about 86.5% of the population. It is a French-based creole language with a significant influence from other languages due to the island's diverse history. Bhojpuri, spoken by approximately 5.3% of the people, reflects the Indian ancestry of many Mauritians. French, with a 4.1% speaker base, is widely understood and used in media and education, often considered a prestige language. English, spoken by 1.3% of the population, serves as the official language of the government and is used in legislative and administrative matters.
Different Languages Spoken in Mauritius
Language data last updated 2024 est. from Wikipedia - Mauritius
| Language | Usage |
|---|---|
| Mauritian Creole | 86.5% |
| Bhojpuri | 5.3% |
| French | 4.1% |
| English | 1.3% |
Useful English Phrases
Hello, how are you?
Bonzour, kouma ou été?
A friendly greeting commonly used when meeting someone.
How much does it cost?
Komye sa koute?
Useful when shopping or ordering at a restaurant.
Where is...?
Koté... ?
Helpful for asking directions to a specific location.
I don't understand
Mo pa konpran
Used when you need clarification or didn't understand something.
Please and thank you
Sil vou plé ek mersi
Basic expressions of politeness that are always appreciated.
Learn to speak English
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