What Language Do They Speak in Singapore?

Header image for Singapore

Singapore

Singapore is a thriving city-state located at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, known for its vibrant multicultural blend and modern skyscrapers. It serves as a global financial hub, attracting businesses and tourists with its efficient infrastructure and diverse attractions. Despite its small size, Singapore boasts a rich cultural heritage and maintains a strong emphasis on education and innovation.

Languages Spoken

Singapore is a linguistically diverse nation reflecting its multicultural society. English stands out as the most widely spoken language and serves as the main medium of instruction in schools and a key language in business and governance. Closely following is Mandarin, which reflects the significant ethnic Chinese population in the country. As the national language, Malay is also commonly spoken, especially in cultural contexts. Tamil, representing the Tamil Indian community, is one of the official languages and is used in education and media, ensuring the preservation of ethnic identities. Additionally, various Chinese dialects, including Hokkien and Cantonese, contribute to Singapore's rich linguistic tapestry, showcasing the blend of traditional and modern influences.

Different Languages Spoken in Singapore

Language data last updated 2024 est. from Wikipedia - Singapore

LanguageUsage
English48.3%
Mandarin35%
Malay9.2%
Tamil3.3%
Other Chinese Dialects3%
Note: The total may add up to more than 100% as people may speak multiple languages

Useful English Phrases

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

Hello, how are you?

Hola, ¿cómo estás?

A friendly greeting and ice-breaker.

How much does it cost?

¿Cuánto cuesta?

Useful when shopping or using services.

Where is...?

¿Dónde está…?

Helps when asking for directions.

I don't understand

No entiendo

Useful if you're having trouble with language barriers.

Please and thank you

Por favor y gracias

Polite phrases that are always appreciated.

Learn to speak English

Interested in speaking English in Singapore? 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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