What Language Do They Speak in Suriname?
Suriname
Suriname, located on the northeastern coast of South America, is a diverse nation with a blend of ethnic groups, primarily descendants of Indian, African, Indigenous, Javanese, and European populations. This multicultural tapestry is reflected in its vibrant festivals, religious practices, and distinct culinary traditions. Despite its small size, Suriname boasts vast natural resources, including pristine rainforests, making it a hub for ecotourism in the region.
Languages Spoken
Suriname, a country located on the northeastern coast of South America, boasts a rich tapestry of languages reflective of its diverse cultural heritage. Dutch is the official language, spoken by about 60% of the population and serves as the medium for government, education, and media. Sranan Tongo, a widely spoken Creole language, is used by approximately 20% of the populace, acting as a lingua franca across various ethnic groups. Javanese, spoken by 13% of the population, and Hindi, with an 11% speaker base, highlight the significant Indonesian and Indian communities in the country. Additionally, a smaller segment of the population speaks French (3%) and Chinese (2%), contributing to Suriname's multifaceted linguistic landscape.
Different Languages Spoken in Suriname
Language data last updated 2024 est. from World Population Review - Suriname
| Language | Usage |
|---|---|
| Dutch | 60% |
| Sranan Tongo | 20% |
| Javanese | 13% |
| Hindi | 11% |
| French | 3% |
| Chinese | 2% |
Useful Dutch Phrases
Hallo
Hello
A basic greeting used to say hello to someone.
Hoe gaat het?
How are you?
A common way to ask someone about their well-being.
Hoeveel kost het?
How much does it cost?
Used when asking for the price of something.
Waar is…?
Where is…?
Begin a question about locations, like looking for a place.
Ik begrijp het niet
I don't understand
Useful when you don't understand what's being said.
Alstublieft en dank u
Please and thank you
Polite expressions for asking something and showing gratitude.
Learn to speak Dutch
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