Which countries speak English? English as an official language worldwide
Quick answer: English is an official language in about 58 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, India, Nigeria, South Africa and the Philippines. About 1.5 billion people speak it as a first or second language.
Where English is official
Some of the largest English-speaking countries:
- Americas: United States, Canada, Jamaica, Bahamas, Guyana
- Europe: United Kingdom, Ireland, Malta
- Africa: Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, Uganda, Zimbabwe
- Asia: India, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore
- Oceania: Australia, New Zealand, Fiji
Why English spread
The British Empire spread English across continents, and later US influence in business, science, film and the internet made it the world’s main second language.
English in the Arab world
English is not official in Arab countries but is widely used in Gulf business and education, especially in the UAE and Qatar.
English as an official language by region
Examples of countries where English is official or widely used in government:
| Region | Countries |
|---|---|
| Europe | United Kingdom, Ireland, Malta |
| Americas | United States (de facto), Canada, Jamaica, Bahamas, Belize, Guyana |
| Africa | Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Uganda, Zambia |
| Asia | India, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore |
| Oceania | Australia (de facto), New Zealand, Fiji, Papua New Guinea |
Native speakers versus total speakers
English has around 400 million native speakers, but well over a billion people speak it as a second or foreign language. That makes it the most widely spoken language in the world when learners are counted. The United States has the most native speakers, while India has one of the largest English-speaking populations overall.
Countries with no official language
The United States has no official language at federal level, although English is used by government. The United Kingdom also has no law making English official. Both are still counted as English-speaking.
Varieties of English
English is spoken differently around the world. British and American English differ in spelling (colour and color), vocabulary (lift and elevator) and pronunciation. Australian, Indian, Nigerian and Singaporean English each have their own words and rhythms. All are correct; they are simply different standards.
| British | American |
|---|---|
| Flat | Apartment |
| Lift | Elevator |
| Biscuit | Cookie |
| Football | Soccer |
| Holiday | Vacation |
English as a global language
English is the main language of international business, aviation, science and the internet. Pilots and air traffic controllers worldwide use English, and most scientific papers are published in it.
Frequently asked questions
How many countries speak English?
English is official in about 58 countries.
Which country has the most English speakers?
The United States has the most native speakers; India has one of the largest numbers of second-language speakers.
Is English the official language of the USA?
English is used by government, but there is no official language at federal level.
How many people speak English?
Well over a billion, including second-language speakers.
What is the difference between British and American English?
Mostly spelling, some vocabulary and pronunciation.
Is English the language of aviation?
Yes, it is the international standard for pilots and air traffic control.