Quick Facts About the French Language

• French is the official language of over 29 countries and is spoken by approximately 300 million people worldwide.
• French is the second most learned language in the world, after English.
• French is an official language of the United Nations, the European Union, and the International Olympic Committee.
• French is also the official language of many international organizations, such as the Red Cross and Doctors Without Borders.

Varieties of French

There are many varieties of French spoken around the world, each with its own unique features and dialects. Here are some of the most well-known varieties of French:

• European French: This is the standard French spoken in France. It is also known as Parisian French and is the variety most commonly taught in schools and universities around the world.
• Canadian French: Know also as Quebec French, this is the variety of French spoken in the Canadian province of Quebec. It is known for its unique vocabulary and pronunciation, which are influenced by English and Indigenous languages.
• Swiss French: This is the French language spoken in Switzerland. It has many similarities to Metropolitan French but also has its own unique features, such as the use of the word “Suisse” instead of “France” to refer to France.
• Belgian French: This is the form of French spoken in Belgium. It is known for its use of regional vocabulary and pronunciation.
• African French: This is spoken in many African countries, and African French is a collective term for the varieties spoken on the continent. It is heavily influenced by local languages and cultures and has its own unique vocabulary and pronunciation.
• Creole French: It refers to a group of distinct Creole languages that have evolved from the French language and are spoken in various parts of the world, including the Caribbean, Louisiana, and French Guiana.