Europe is a diverse continent. Not all countries in Europe speak English, surprisingly. So what countries in Europe speak English?
To find the answer to this question. Let us look at some countries that speak English as a second language.
What Countries In Europe Speak English?
As a foreigner, you must assume that English is the only major language spoken in Europe.
It is true to some extent for most countries. Even with their native language, they have many English speakers.
Europe is a mix of cultures and languages. Aside from the native languages and culture. There is a large number of immigrants living.
Countries like Sweden, Germany, and Finland provide study programs for international students. And good job opportunities.
Because of the mix of culture and languages. English is becoming a means of communication worldwide. It holds the status of the Lingua franca.
Most European countries have an exceeding amount of English speakers. Moreover, this number keeps increasing with time.
Top 10 Countries In Europe That Speak English
English is worldwide considered to be the native language of Europe . But Europe comprises different countries.
There are fifty countries in the continent of Europe. Most countries have their own culture and language.
English, on a global level, is a famous language. It is spoken or used all over the world.
But specifically in Europe, English by many people is considered to be the main language.
English is the second language in most countries in Europe.
That is true not only for Europe but all around the world. For example, some countries have English as their second language. Or the language of business.
Here are the top 10 countries in Europe that speak English.
1. The Netherlands:
The Netherlands is at the top of the European countries that speak English. A total of 91% of the population can speak English.
The total population of the Netherlands is 16.8 million. Out of which 15.3 million people can speak English properly.
The reasons behind a large number of English speakers in the Netherlands. Are immigration, tourism, and international businesses.
Businesses in the Netherlands are aware of the importance of English.
They can easily and efficiently promote themselves all around the world through English.
Traveling to the Netherlands is a fun experience. Not only because of the scenery but also because you can easily interact with the natives.
2. Austria:
Most of the population in Austria speaks German. But 73% of the total population can speak English.
Most of these English speakers are around tourist areas. Even then, with just English, you can easily travel through Austria.
Most Austrian females are more proficient in English than males. This difference is most prominent in Austria than in any other European country.
3. Denmark:
Denmark is a homogenous country. That is because it does not regard itself as an immigration country.
Danish is the official language of Denmark. However, 52.95% of the population is estimated to speak English.
English gets taught in schools from an early age. For that reason, the most population can speak or understand English.
English is Denmark’s second most spoken language, followed by German. While Danish is the most spoken language in Denmark.
4. Norway:
Most of the Norwegian population speaks English as a second language. As a result, English is a part of their daily routine.
Learning English in school is a choice. But most people understand the value of English in the modern world.
So many students opt to study English as a subject. That is because so many Norwegian natives work in the fields. Where English is mostly used for communication.
Moreover, through movies and literature, learning English has become easier for natives.
5. Belgium:
English is the third most spoken language in Belgium. Coming after French and on top Dutch.
About 28.76% of Belgium’s population can speak English. The students start learning English when they enter primary school. That makes them well aware of the language from the start.
Belgium is quite diverse. With people who can speak two or three languages.
Most population of students opt for learning English in school. That is because the value of English in the modern world is a lot.
6. Portugal:
The national language of Portugal is Portuguese. 95.5% of the total population speaks Portuguese.
English comes in second place. Spoken by 14.87% of the population. Most of these speakers are around the tourist spots in Portugal.
Portugal is a big tourist attraction. Yearly, millions of people travel to Portugal.
That is one of the main reasons for natives to know English.
Many of the Portugal population immigrates. For their jobs, people have to learn English. For that reason, many elderly can speak English easily.
Moreover, the new generation is learning English from schools and the internet.
7. Sweden:
Sweden ranks 8th among the top English-speaking countries in Europe. 53.97% of the population can speak English.
The official language of Sweden is Swedish, spoken by 96.72% of the population.
Sweden is a multicultural country. It has a high immigrant population. Most population excels in speaking English.
There are many academic programs provided in English in Sweden. In addition, many multinational companies use English as a mode of communication.
Sweden internationalizes its higher education. Welcoming more international students to study there. For that reason, most courses are in English.
8. Finland:
The national language of Finland is Finnish. 97.45% of the population speaks Finnish. At the same time, 45.25% of the population can speak English.
While Finnish is the most spoken language in the country. Many Universities provide English language programs and cultural studies.
Aside from these programs provided by the universities. The younger population can communicate in English among themselves.
Most foreigners don’t have to worry about the language barrier is a problem. As almost everyone can communicate in English.
9. Croatia:
Croatia is a popular tourist destination in Eastern Europe. Almost 49% of the population in Croatia can speak English.
Croatian is the native language of Croatia. Spoken by 95% of the population. However, there are other languages spoken too. Such as German and French.
Children learn English in schools. But with the fast pace of media, most of the younger generation is learning the language fluently.
10. Germany:
German is the official language of Germany. 94.17% of the population of Germany speaks German as their native language.
English is the second language in Germany. 31.93% of the German population can speak English fluently.
Germany provides many English programs in its universities. With a lot of foreign exchange students studying there.
English is the main discourse for communication among youngsters. You can travel through Germany only by speaking English.
Other English-Speaking Countries In Europe
There are fifty countries and states in Europe. Out of these fifty countries and states in Europe.
United Kingdom, Ireland, Gibraltar, Malta, and the Sovereign based are of Akron use English as their official language.
Aside from these, some countries don’t have English as their official language. Yet they have English language speakers.
Some of these countries and the percentage of English speakers there are as follows.
Some more countries with a small population of English speakers include Lithuania, whose 20% population speaks English,
Romania has a 17% of the English-speaking population. Italy has 13% of English speakers.
Hungary has a 12% English-speaking population. Bulgaria’s 12% population speaks English.
The Czech Republic has 11% English speakers in the country. Spain’s 11% population speaks English.
History Of English In Europe
English is a West Germanic Language. It is closely related to Frisian, German, and Dutch languages.
English is a lingua franca on a global level. It is the language of worldwide trade, business, and communication.
Europe is a diverse continent. With different cultures, languages, and histories. English is thought to be the native language of Europe.
It can be true to some extent, as most European countries have English speakers.
The United Kingdom and Ireland are the parts of Europe where English is mostly used.
Even countries with different official languages do have English speakers.
In the modern era, the importance of English is increasing. As traveling and trading across the globe are becoming easier.
English is the language of business and trade, making it valuable worldwide.
English Spoken In European Countries
It is safe to say that English can be seen used as a second language in most European countries.
This English has a European touch to it. Meaning the natives have given it the essence of their tongue.
This new form of English is named as Euro-English. Many phrases in Euro-English are not acceptable in British or American English.
Yet these phrases or words get accepted and used by users. However, Euro-English is not considered a separate language.
Maybe it will become a language of its own in the coming years.
Final Thoughts:
Although by a foreigner’s assumption. We can say that English is the only language spoken in most of Europe. But that isn’t true.
Then what countries in Europe speak English? Although most countries have their own native and official languages.
English is still well spoken in most European countries.
You will have no trouble visiting countries. Like in The Netherlands or Sweden, most natives are fluent in English.
Europe is a mix of languages and cultures. But the global value of English makes it a popular language in most countries.
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