What Language Do They Speak in Papua New Guinea?
Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea is an island nation located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, encompassing the eastern portion of the island of New Guinea and numerous smaller islands. It is known for its rich cultural diversity, with hundreds of indigenous ethnic groups and languages contributing to a vibrant cultural tapestry. The country's lush landscapes range from tropical rainforests to highland mountains, offering a remarkable biodiversity and awe-inspiring natural beauty.
Languages Spoken
Papua New Guinea is renowned for its linguistic diversity, with over 800 languages spoken across the country. Among the most widely spoken are Tok Pisin, Hiri Motu, and English. Tok Pisin serves as a lingua franca throughout the nation, spoken by approximately 77% of the population. Hiri Motu, traditionally used in the southern regions, is spoken by around 1.5% of the people. English, a remnant of colonial influence, is spoken by about 1% of the population, mainly used in governmental and formal education settings. This rich tapestry of languages is a testament to Papua New Guinea's diverse cultural heritage.
Different Languages Spoken in Papua New Guinea
Language data last updated 2024 est. from Wikipedia - Papua New Guinea
| Language | Usage |
|---|---|
| Tok Pisin | 77% |
| Hiri Motu | 1.5% |
| English | 1% |
Useful Tok Pisin Phrases
Halo
Hello
A simple greeting similar to English.
Yu orait?
How are you?
A common way to ask someone how they are doing.
Hamamas long bungim yu
Nice to meet you
Used when meeting someone for the first time.
Plis na tenkyu
Please and thank you
Basic politeness phrases.
Mi no harim
I don't understand
Useful when you need someone to repeat what they said.
Learn to speak Tok Pisin
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