Colombia

You are here: Home | Country Guide | Colombia

See photo of Colombia. Copyright owned by photographer.
See photo of Colombia. Copyright owned by photographer.
See photo of Colombia. Copyright owned by photographer.

The Languages spoken in Colombia


The official language of Colombia is Spanish. The Colombian Spanish accent is the variance of Spanish language with an emphasis spoken in Colombia, which has some typical features compare to the Spanish spoken in Spain. Sign languages use in the country are Colombian numerals, Colombian Sign Language and Providence Island Sign Language.

The languages of Colombia’s ethnic groups are constitutionally accepted as official languages in their districts. In places with non-Spanish lingual customs, bilingual education is irremissibly. Over 60 native languages exist nowadays such as Ticuna, San Andrés-Providencia Creole, Paezan languages, Minica Huitoto, Kuna, Guahibo, Cuiba, Cocama-Cocamilla, Arawakan languages, etc.

Some of the regional dialects in the Colombian Spanish are Andean or pastuso (spoken in the southwest region of the country); Caribbean or Coastal (spoken by the Caribbean individuals in the Caribbean Region of the country); Paisa (spoken in the Colombian coffee areas, suchlike Antioquia, Caldas, Quindío and Risaralda); Rolo (dialect of Bogotá, also called cachaco or educated); and Valley (spoken in the valley of the Cauca River within the Central cordilleras and Occidental). Slang speaking is quite prevalent in the paisa area and Medellín social group, where it is called "Parlache". However, using slang expressions have been broadcasted beyond of their original areas to become usually understood nationwide. Although some words finally lose their status as slang and others remain to be dealt as such by most speakers. Some scholars describe this variety of language as unclassifiable or disgusting; it becomes a lingual development with clear sociological importance.


How can we help you find what you are looking for? Please click here to help us service your needs better.

Sponsors

Meet other international minded people who love to travel, study abroad, learn new languages and meet people from other countries and cultures.
Join our international community!
Newsletter