What Language Do They Speak in Sao Tome and Principe?
Sao Tome and Principe
Sao Tome and Principe, an island nation situated in the Gulf of Guinea in Central Africa, is made up of two main volcanic islands and several smaller islets. Known for its lush tropical rainforests, pristine beaches, and rich biodiversity, it is a hidden gem in terms of natural beauty. With a history affected by Portuguese colonization and the cocoa industry, it is a vibrant mixture of African and Portuguese heritage.
Languages Spoken
Sao Tome and Principe, an island nation Gulf of Guinea, predominantly speaks Portuguese, with around 98.4% of its population using it as their primary language. This is a reflection of the country's colonial history under Portuguese rule. However, the linguistic landscape is enriched by several locally spoken Creole languages. Forro, spoken by 36.2% of the populace, is a Portuguese-based Creole that is widely spoken particularly in Sao Tome. Angolar, another Portuguese-based Creole, is spoken by 6.6% of the population, primarily in the southern parts. Lunguie, with 8.5% speakers, is sometimes associated with the island of Sao Tome. Meanwhile, Principense, spoken by about 1% of the population, is an endangered Creole specific to the island of Principe. These languages not only highlight the cultural diversity of the islands but also encapsulate the rich historical interactions between different cultures.
Different Languages Spoken in Sao Tome and Principe
Language data last updated 2024 est. from Wikipedia - Sao Tome and Principe
| Language | Usage |
|---|---|
| Portuguese | 98.4% |
| Forro | 36.2% |
| Angolar | 6.6% |
| Lunguie | 8.5% |
| Principense | 1% |
Useful Portuguese Phrases
Olá
Hello
A common greeting used throughout Sao Tome and Principe.
Como vai?
How are you?
A friendly way to inquire about someone's wellbeing.
Quanto custa?
How much does it cost?
Useful when shopping or asking about prices in restaurants or markets.
Onde está...?
Where is...?
Helpful for asking directions or locating places.
Por favor e obrigado/obrigada
Please and thank you (male/female)
Essential polite expressions for any interaction, with 'obrigado' being used by males and 'obrigada' by females.
Learn to speak Portuguese
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