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What are the most common languages spoken in Johannesburg, Gauteng?

41 local experts
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Are residents of Johannesburg typically multilingual? What languages are most common? Here's what 41 local experts had to say about language in Johannesburg, Gauteng.

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There’s a lot of different cultures from all over the world. The most spoken language is Zulu which is one of the official languages in South Africa. There’s a lot of activities to do which includes going on a tour around the city, going to visit townships and also going to Soweto.

Kgaugelo, says: 2020

Someone considering moving to my city must know that it is very diverse; there are different people who speak different languages and are from different cultures. My city is a capital of South Africa and it is also known as the ‘city of gold’ because it has many opportunities especially for hustlers and handworkers. Johannesburg is known as a dangerous city due to high crime rates, therefore one must be careful when walking around the streets.

Joshua, says: 2020

Johannesburg is a multicultural city where all 11 South African official languages are spoken. People from all over South Africa usually move to Johannesburg because of work opportunities including people from all over Africa. It is one of the largest cities in South Africa and also the most vibrant and diverse. Johannesburg is the largest man-made forest in the world. This city is filled with beautiful scenery, vibrant colours and nice people.

Sayuri, says: 2020

For those who might not know, Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa. This beautiful city is also known a the city of gold because of its beginnings as a gold-mining town. Apart from it’s minerals, Johannesburg has vast tourist attractions. What you will see a lot in my city is diversity in people, languages and even food. The culture in Johannesburg is unique, whether you are in the townships or the suburbs. There is so many platforms and opportunities in Johannesburg to learn more.

Hlompho, says: 2020

They need to be vigilant as pickpocketing is rife in the city center. This city has different people from different areas who all speak different languages. It is a wonderful place to experience the different cultures of the country. Knowing a bit of IsiZulu is a good way to survive when in trouble or lost.

Chantal, says: 2020

This city is made up of South African citizens from all over the country and the the continent. Don’t be surprised when people communicate in different languages, there is no universal language here. There is no beach because Johannesburg is not along the coast. Never ask for directions from strangers, always use your GPS.

Lubanzi, says: 2020

The city of Johannesburg, has the richest square-mile in Africa. The city, is diverse in the number of cultures and languages, you can find, and it is, also the most populous city, in the country. Johannesburg is unique in the sense that, it has two Nobel prize winners, who previously lived in the same street, at the same time.

Martin, says: 2020

Someone considering moving to my city should know that the crime rate or high therefore it’s essential that they carry self-defense weapons. My city is also extremely beautiful, they should bring a camera to take pictures and make memories. There are many different languages. If they want to be able to communicate stick to speaking English.

Thulisile, says: 2020

Known as the fast-paced city, Johannesburg is known for its lively nature. From people that come from all sorts of backgrounds, to the mixtures of culture and languages. Johannesburg is a city where anyone can reside in, and be welcomed. Although, having the knowledge of English would be a good skill to have!

Johannesburg is a the only place anyone in South African wants to see themselves at. It is a place full of great opportunities not forgetting entertainment too. Multilingual people from different provinces come here to explore the Joburg life but it often because challenging to communicate with one another though it’s not really a big factor; we are also open to learning other languages and their culture. We all just came to the city to live a happy life and get along with everyone. Jozi is the best place to be in the Country.

Wessel, says: 2020

It is a beautiful city, a lot of people move from different provinces to find work in Johannesburg. You find a lot of different languages, cultures and beliefs. It is the hub of mining, a lot of Gold mines are situated near this city… so you can imagine since South Africa makes a lot of money from the mines, the city attracts or lot of people who seek employment.

Blessing, says: 2020

Johannesburg is a very vibrant place to visit. Walking through the streets of Johannesburg is a unique experience one could never encounter in an ordinary city, it is not the Capital city of South Africa but its energy is vibrant and refreshing. It is a city that brings all the languages and cultures of the entire country, together.

Hlengiwe, says: 2020

My city is very vibrant and full of life. A day walking through the streets of Johannesburg is full of interesting encounters, one wouldn’t experience in any ordinary city. Although Johannesburg is not the official Capital city of South Africa, it’s energy feels like a city that brings all the different cultures and languages of South Africa, together.

Halima, says: 2020

A person moving to my should know that my city consists of many ethnic groups, which then means that there is diversity. My city having such a diverse population mainly means that there are many languages that one can communicate with, but since English is a medium of instruction, one is bound to use English when communicating in my city, for communication to be easy.

Nqobile, says: 2020

The area has a lot of violence, especially during the night. Other than that, it is a very fun and exciting place to be around during the day because one is able to learn and see new things, as well as people. There are 11 official languages that are spoken, therefore it would be a great opportunity for a person to learn new languages.

Johannesburg is located right in the middle of South Africa, attracting people from all corners of the country. You should know that you will be within a mix of cultures, races and languages. Johannesburg also has great weather, it is never too hot or too cold. It’s is an exciting and lively city with so much to offer.

Lizelle, says: 2020

My city, Johannesburg, also known as the city of gold, is very vibrant, it is often described as the pulse of my Province. Johannesburg has an incredible amount of history attached to it as well, including apartheid museums and Nelson Mandela’s previous house. This City is one of the most diverse in the country, as most people from all over come here for job opportunities, so it becomes a melting pot full of different cultures and languages.

Sakwakana, says: 2020

Johannesburg the largest city in South Africa and is a microcosm of the country itself, in terms of a diverse convergence of cultures, races, languages and socioeconomic strata. It is vibrant, always on the move and an exciting city to live and work in. It can certainly be considered the Big Apple of Africa.

Tarryn, says: 2020

They must consider learning one or two of the official languages. We are a diverse group and they might find it difficult to adjust to our way of life. There is a lot to experience in this city. Johannesburg is big and some parts of it are said to be dangerous so they need to be careful when walking around this beautiful city.

Puleng, says: 2020

A person interested in moving to Johannesburg, should be a lover of the fast paced life. It is a city filled with vibrant people where a lot of opportunities are experienced. It is the busiest city in South Africa and is known as the City of Gold. In Johannesburg, you find people of different cultures, it is a diverse city. All 11 official languages are spoken in the different parts of the city.

Lubelihle, says: 2020

Johannesburg is a wonderful city with a variety of cultures and languages. It is a city that never seizes to amaze me. There is a community for everyone to belong to, and you never stop learning new information. It is a beautiful representation of unity and acceptance. Every single person may have different experiences but at the end of the day, we are all one rainbow nation.

Martha, says: 2020

My city has a diverse community with 10 of the 11 official languages of South Africa spoken and a lot of tourists visit my city because of the cycling and running events taking place every month for anyone interested. In addition, my city was once home to well known leaders such as Nelson Mandela and Walter Sisulu.

Gerrit, says: 2020

Known as the rainbow nation, South Africa, specifically, Johannesburg is a city filled with a diverse group of people, cultures and languages. However, like every other big city in the world people who plan to visit Johannesburg must be aware of crime rate in the city and should not trust strangers blindly.

My city has the most amazing sites to visit. It has great infrastructure. We are a true rainbow nation with kind hearted people, amazing street food, and 11 official languages. The city is a true World class African City, with great places to live. Malls are in most areas, we have uber services and a great train service.

Zenash, says: 2020

There is a diverse group of people that live in my city. You can enjoy learning the differing dialects in language. We have eleven official languages each person is entitled to freedom of speech. There is now a new additional information that matriculants may write in any of the official languages from their mother tongue.

Nobuhle, says: 2020

Someone moving here should be aware of the crime and the various cultures. Johannesburg experiences a high crime rate; from a stolen phone to a home/car break in. These criminal can use a gun to threaten you, and cornering you in groups. Besides the crime, the culture is spectacular. The Johannesburg culture involve various foods, colors and language. Fitting into the culture will guarantee great memories and friends.

Zandile, says: 2020

The crime rate in Johannesburg is quite high. Johannesburg is one of the most vibrant cities in South Africa. It’s the the capital city of Gauteng. The most commonly spoken language in Johannesburg is English, followed by isiZulu. The most easily available modes of transport in Johannesburg are minibus taxis, Gautrain, Uber, and Bolt.

Lizelle, says: 2020

A person who is going to move to Johannesburg should first and foremost be aware of the unique cultural landscape of South Africa. For a country as small as we are, we have an exceptionally diverse group of people. The country has eleven official languages and each of these languages has a culture behind it. As the business hub of the country, Johannesburg (or Jozi as it is affectionately called) plays host to members of all of these cultural groups and many migrants and their families.

Karabo, says: 2020

Johannesburg is a city with many hidden gems. You just need to keep an eye out for them. In order to find a safe neighborhood to stay in, first speak to one of the locals. They will be able to give you more accurate information about where to buy a house than if you searched it on the internet.

Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa where I reside. The city is the center of large-scale gold and diamond trade because it is in the mineral-rich Witwatersrand range of hills. The Constitutional Court which is the highest court in South Africa, is also in this city. There are 11 official languages that are spoken in South Africa and isiZulu, Sesotho, Sepedi and isiXhosa are the main languages spoken in Johannesburg. This city has good climate and weather.

Appraise, says: 2020

Johannesburg is a very crowded place. Having a car is a great advantage. It has a high crime rate. It has great places one can visit with their family, it has a great number of holiday destination. It has a high number of languages than any other province in South Africa. It has great sanitation.

Martha, says: 2020

Johannesburg is a vibrant city with people from all over the world. It would be useful to learn one of the South African languages as communication with the natives would be easier. be vigilant at all times as there is a high crime rate. The weather is warm but regardless of the season, carry a light cardigan for the unpredictable weather changes that could occur. Finally, bring a positive attitude and a warm smile as Johannesburg is full of friendly people.

Johannesburg is a city of culture. If you plan to move here, be prepared to learn culture and a variety of languages. It is rich in humanity and you must be willing to live in a noisy town, as it is a city that never sleeps. The city is the capital of the country, and being a resident in it requires you to embrace the history and the high rise buildings blooming around the city. The city is also quite populated, so, if being in the midst of everyone is your tune, then consider residing here.

Mankunyana, says: 2020

Johannesburg is a sprawling city in South Africa, at the southern tip of Africa. It has an international airport (O. R. Tambo International Airport), but it takes a long time to get to international destinations such as London, New York, Paris, Rome and Berlin. Flights are very expensive, as there protectionist regulations are in place to protect the local airline (SAA). Travel within the country is also expensive and not easy, as there is no railroad or acceptable bus service to speak of. The only options are to fly using SAA, which is very expensive, or to drive, but the roads are not good and there is a very real problem with danger on the roads.

Although it may be known worldwide for its crime statistics, the people of the city of Johannesburg are always warm and eager to welcome new residents. Our spirit of ‘Ubuntu’, which is a term used to describe compassion and humanity in one of native language of isiZulu. We strive to be inclusive of all nationalities as we are affectionately known as the ‘Rainbow Nation’.

Vukosi, says: 2020

Johannesburg is the business hub of South Africa. Someone moving here ought to know it is a multinational, multicultural and multilingual city. It is also important to note that the cost of living is high, although not as high when compared to other cities in the world but in Africa, it is on the high side. It is a fun place with so many tourist attractions. Being bored would never be a problem!

Tshiamo, says: 2020

Johannesburg is the city of gold. This is because over 40% of the world’s gold has been found in Witwatersrand Basin to this day. Residents of Johannesburg are regarded as one of the friendliest people on Earth. There are eleven official languages.

Jennifer, says: 2020

Crime is quite prevalent in my city. However, the weather is great. Johannesburg is known as the City of Gold. Witwatersrand, in Johannesburg, is one of the internationally accredited universities in South Africa. Johannesburg is a metropolitan. There is a wide demographic with people from all over the world. English, Zulu and Afrikaans are the languages that are spoken the most in Gauteng.

Gugulethu, says: 2020

Johannesburg is a beautiful city, known for its diversity of people, food, languages, and cultures. The weather is usually temperate, with rainy summers, but please beware of the biting winter air! It is also quite large and contains many places to visit – such as historical buildings, museums, and wildlife parks.

Lebogang, says: 2020

Johannesburg is the biggest city in South Africa. In 1886, owing to gold being discovered in Johannesburg, the city became infamously renowned as the “City of Gold”. The country has 11 official languages, many of which you will hear in the streets of Johannesburg. While tourists may be concerned about the extreme levels often crime and poverty frequently televised, it is a beautiful city with many exciting opportunities.

Keisha, says: 2020

Urban, assorted and brimming with vitality, Johannesburg is the quintessential city. With 11 national dialects; which are all spoken in Johannesburg, just as a flourishing economy based off the territory’s gold stores. It’s no big surprise why South Africa’s biggest city additionally holds the differentiation of being the world’s biggest city not situated close to a stream, lake or coastline.

Cynthia, says: 2020
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