New caledonia language
New Caledonia is a French overseas collectivity in the Pacific Ocean, and as such, French is the official language. However, the country also has a rich linguistic diversity, with several indigenous languages spoken by the Kanak people, who are the native inhabitants of New Caledonia.
The main indigenous languages spoken in New Caledonia are:
- Drehu: spoken by around 30,000 people, mainly in the Loyalty Islands (Îles Loyauté).
- Nengone: spoken by around 15,000 people, mainly in the Île des Pins (Isle of Pines).
- Ajië: spoken by around 10,000 people, mainly in the north of Grande Terre (the main island of New Caledonia).
- Xaracuu: spoken by around 5,000 people, mainly in the south of Grande Terre.
- Iaai: spoken by around 3,000 people, mainly in the north of Grande Terre.
These languages are all part of the Austronesian language family and are closely related to each other. However, they are not mutually intelligible, and each language has its own distinct grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.
In addition to these indigenous languages, French is widely spoken in New Caledonia, particularly in urban areas and in education, government, and business. Many Kanak people also speak French as a second language, and it is often used as a lingua franca for communication between people who speak different indigenous languages.
There are also several other languages spoken in New Caledonia, including:
- English: spoken by some expatriates and tourists
- Japanese: spoken by some Japanese expatriates and businesspeople
- Vietnamese: spoken by some Vietnamese expatriates and businesspeople
- Other Pacific languages: spoken by Pacific Islanders who have migrated to New Caledonia
Overall, New Caledonia has a rich linguistic diversity, with several indigenous languages and a significant presence of French and other languages.