The 10 Most Spoken Languages in Europe
- September 22, 2024
- By Tobias Woudt
Europe, with its rich history and cultural diversity, is home to over 200 languages.
Throughout centuries of migration, empires, and trade, Europe has become a unique linguistic landscape, where some languages are spoken by millions of people both as native tongues and as second languages.
From the global influence of English to the regional importance of Polish, each language holds a unique place on the continent.
In this blog, we’ll explore the 10 most spoken languages in Europe, ranking them based on their combined native and second-language speakers.
These languages not only reflect the cultural identity of their native countries but also highlight the growing interconnectedness of Europe.
Table of Content
Understanding the Difference Native Speakers and L2 Speakers
This article will be differentitating between two types of speakers when considering the most spoken languages in Europe.
What Are Native Speakers?
A native speaker is someone who has acquired a language from birth.
This person typically speaks the language fluently and intuitively, understanding not only the grammar and vocabulary but also cultural nuances, idioms, and colloquial expressions.
Native speakers often have a natural command over pronunciation, rhythm, and tone. As a result, they are often perceived as more confident and accurate in their speech.
Key Traits:
- Learned from birth or early childhood
- Intuitive grasp of grammar and syntax
- Strong cultural and contextual understanding
- Effortless pronunciation and fluidity
What Are L2 Speakers
An L2 speaker is someone who has learned a language after their native one.
While their proficiency can range from beginner to fluent, L2 speakers typically need more time to acquire the deeper cultural context, idiomatic expressions, and subtle nuances of the language.
They may have a strong grasp of grammar rules through study but may struggle more with pronunciation, fluency, or confidence compared to native speakers.
However, L2 speakers often bring a unique perspective and a deeper understanding of language learning processes.
Key Traits:
- Learned the language later in life (after the native language)
- Varies in fluency and proficiency levels
- May face challenges in idiomatic usage and cultural nuances
- Structured understanding of grammar, often through formal education
#1 Most spoken language in Europe = English
– Native speakers: ~65 million
– L2 speakers: ~200 million
English is by far the most widely spoken language in Europe, with 200 million L2 speakers using it as a second language.
While it is the native language in only a few countries like the UK and Ireland, its status as the global lingua franca for business, media, and academia makes it indispensable.
#2 Most spoken language in Europe = German
– Native speakers: ~95 million
– L2 speakers: ~35 million
German is the most spoken native language in Europe, thanks to Germany’s large population.
Its economic power has contributed to 35 million L2 speakers learning German, especially in neighboring countries and the EU institutions.
#3 Most spoken language in Europe = French
– Native speakers: ~77 million
– L2 speakers: ~50 million
As one of the most influential languages in diplomacy and culture, French is spoken by 77 million native speakers and 50 million L2 speakers.
Its widespread use in international organizations like the EU and UN ensures its continued relevance.
#4 Most spoken language in Europe = Russian
– Native speakers: ~120 million
– L2 speakers: ~10 million
Russian remains a dominant language in Eastern Europe, with 120 million native speakers and 10 million L2 speakers.
Its political and cultural significance extends beyond Russia into former Soviet states and neighboring countries.
#5 Most spoken language in Europe = Italian
– Native speakers: ~65 million
– L2 speakers: ~3 million
Italian, the language of 65 million native speakers, may not have as many second-language learners, but its cultural significance in the arts, fashion, and cuisine gives it a strong global presence.
#6 Most spoken language in Europe = Spanish
– Native speakers: ~45 million
– L2 speakers: ~8 million
With 45 million native speakers in Spain, Spanish’s global influence is growing in Europe, especially with 8 million L2 speakers.
Its status as the second most spoken language worldwide ensures that its importance continues to rise.
#7 Most spoken language in Europe = Polish
– Native speakers: ~40 million
– L2 speakers: ~1 million
Spoken by 40 million native speakers, Polish is an important language in Central and Eastern Europe, with a growing number of L2 speakers, particularly in the UK and Germany, due to Polish migration.
#8 Most spoken language in Europe = Dutch
– Native speakers: ~23 million
– L2 speakers: ~5 million
Dutch, spoken by 23 million native speakers in the Netherlands and Belgium, has 5 million L2 speakers, thanks to its role in trade, commerce, and international organizations like the EU.
#9 Most spoken language in Europe = Ukrainian
– Native speakers: ~30 million
– L2 speakers: ~1 million
Ukrainian, with 30 million native speakers, is primarily spoken in Ukraine but has gained more international recognition in recent years.
Though fewer L2 speakers learn it, Ukrainian remains a key language in Eastern Europe.
#10 Most spoken language in Europe = Portuguese
– Native speakers: ~10 million
-L2 speakers: ~1 million
Though Portuguese has only 10 million native speakers in Europe, it is a global language, spoken widely in Brazil, Africa, and Asia.
With 1 million L2 speakers in Europe, its historical influence continues to play a significant role in international relations.
Conclusion: Learn These Most Spoken Languages in Europe with Tobian Language School
Europe’s linguistic diversity offers a wealth of opportunities for those looking to learn a new language.
Whether it’s English for international business, French for diplomacy, or German for science and engineering, mastering one of these languages opens doors to new cultures, careers, and connections across the continent.
At Tobian Language School, we provide a variety of courses in over 30 languages, including the 10 most spoken languages in Europe.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to improve your skills, our experienced teachers offer personalized lessons tailored to your learning style and goals.
Ready to expand your horizons?
Start your language journey today with Tobian Language School!
Tobias is a polyglot, traveller and founder of the Tobian Language School.