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What are the most common languages spoken in Singapore?

22 local experts
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Are residents of Singapore typically multilingual? What languages are most common? Here's what 22 local experts had to say about language in Singapore.

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English and Mandarin are widely spoken here. It is warm, humid and wet year-round. It is easy to get around in Singapore because of the excellent bus and MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) systems. You will not be too homesick because of the availability of International cuisines.

Krishani, says: 2020

Singapore is a beautiful city, it has greenery amidst the city and a painting of skyline that draws from old colonial buildings to cutting-edge skyscrapers. The Lion City had celebrated its 55th years of independence on 9th August 2020. A fun fact to share, our national language is Malay. Although English, Chinese, Tamil and Malay are the four official languages of the country.

Jeremy, says: 2020

They would be better off coming here as a tourist. Even though English is one of the main languages, they are going to need some semblance of Chinese speaking skill to order the cheaper foods, and learning that is a nightmare unto itself. The type of people who would love it here are the ones who love structure, rules and routine in their lives, with little risk and adventure between.

For a start, every Singaporean speaks Singlish. Singapore is also a food paradise, you could find all kinds of cuisine in Singapore, from hawker centers to five star Michelin restaurants. The attractions in Singapore would be Marina Bay Sands – a boat like looking hotel; and Esplanade – a durian like looking theatre; Sentosa island.

Shannon, says: 2020

When one sets foot on the sovereign city of Singapore, they might just find themselves fully absorbed in our rich and diverse identity. Singapore isn’t like many countries. We have fully assimilated among each other, regardless of race, language, or religion. Besides an inclusive society, a thriving garden city grows from within, ranking us as the world’s most competitive economy. check out our delectable cuisines and visit our astounding tourist attractions!

Trevor, says: 2020

Singapore is a great country. There are many great places one can visit here. These include the Marina Bay sands, which is a famous hotel, the Merlion, which represents the symbol of Singapore, the Botanical and orchid gardens which are a part of the UNESCO world heritage site and more. The people here are kind and friendly once you get to know them. You will find them communicating in “Singlish” which actually stands for Singaporean English. This language is actually a mixture of Indonesian, Malay and Chinese words combined with the English language.

Sharon, says: 2020

it is an incredibly clean city, and that everyone should do their part in keeping it clean by disposing of their rubbish at the appropriate green dustbins near taxi or bus stands. It is also a multicultural city and there will always be an abundance of food to eat and explore. Above all, we have a colloquial language that can be slightly difficult to comprehend at first, but it is also a very alluring part of city, which makes it so unique and different.

Locals in Singapore speak Singlish, which is a unique blend of our multicultural heritage embedded into the English language. Think of a mashup of English, Malay, Mandarin and traditional dialects peppered with ‘lah’s, ‘lors’ and ‘leh’s.

When you first arrive in our little city-state, hearing how the locals converse may leave you more than slightly bewildered.

But fear not, Singlish – something which the locals find endearing – is not that hard to get used to. In fact, you may soon find yourself slipping into using Singlish when you order that next plate of chicken rice at one of our beloved hawkers stalls.

Audrey, says: 2020

Singapore is an expensive city, but we do have an affordable public transport system that is easily accessible to most people. We are a multicultural country, with the Chinese being the majority, and the Malays and Indians being the minority. Locals speak in a language known as Singlish, which is a mixture of Dialects, Malay, and the English language.

Nicholas, says: 2020

Singapore is a ‘city within a garden’ with strict laws, low crime rate, and the world’s best airport. Singaporeans speak a colloquial form of English termed Singlish and live in diverse multicultural and multiracial society. Here we have a wide variety of delectable dishes to cater to every taste bud.

Hillary, says: 2020

From the outside, Singapore is widely known as a first world country, a safe and clean garden city. However, those considering making a move to this city must be prepared to face the lesser-known truths of our society. Residents are expected to follow the unspoken rules of society, such as not being a public nuisance and never speaking out on unpopular opinions. Additionally, Singapore is expensive on the whole, high housing and transport costs only adding to the high cost of living here. Hence, while Singapore may seem like the perfect place to settle, there is much to consider for the newer residents.

Shaivi, says: 2020

Perhaps the most common misconception that most foreigners have of my city, is at the same time the most important fact to get right. Singapore is a sovereign democratic nation, a first world country and absolutely not one that is part of China.

We are a cultural melting pot and a very successful and peaceful one too. Blatant racism and offensive secularism is heavily penalised. Due to or diverse racial and religious backgrounds, we have developed our very own pseudo language ‘Singlish’. This Singlish is a mixture of slangs from Mandarin dialects, Malay and Tamil, thought the majority of the made up language is English. Getting used to Singlish is tough at first but many expatriates get used to it quickly as the language is in fact extremely efficient and fun!

Andrea, says: 2020

With a classy business friendly climate, good standards of living and no language barrier, Singapore has become a favoured destination of global citizens. Its proximity to South East Asia and emerging markets of China and India offer a great opportunity for startups and new businesses to grow here. Majority of the food being imported also leads to the availability of all cuisines. There’s always something to do for everyone out here. Don’t hesitate to take the plunge.

Jowelyn, says: 2020

He should consider whether he has the financial capability to live permanently in Singapore due to the high cost of living here. There is a need to respect and speak with discretion in this multiracial society, to prevent undermining social fabric and conflicts from arising between races. He should also be aware of the importance of keeping our environment clean, which is especially critical in maintaining our reputation as a green city.

Sylvia, says: 2020

Singapore is often referred to as “Asia lite”. It is a delightfully unique blend of eastern and western values and customs. Though many citizens speak Chinese, Malay, or Tamil, you do not need to know any language but English to communicate here. However, you should be prepared to learn a dialect you may not be aware of: Singlish. Before you know it, you may just find yourself responding to the question of if you can see yourself living in Singapore forever with, “Can, lah! “

Allison, says: 2020

In case, moving to Singapore be prepared for tropical weather so pack clothes for the heat. In addition to that make sure of a secure job and short term lease. Language will not be a barrier at all and lastly, it is not expensive if you know where and how to spend your money.

Shannon, says: 2020

Majority of the people who reside here seem to be in a constant rush. Walking speedily is the norm. Otherwise, you may be frowned upon. In fact, locals take great pride in being quick and efficient, so much so that they have crafted a revised version of the English language; foreign to unaccustomed ears. With various languages weaved into phrases of minimal words, we share our thoughts. Although, this is better known as Singlish to the rest of the world.

Consider the cost of living and a potential language barrier. Singapore is one of the most expensive cities to live in and as a foreigner, one does not receive subsidies for basic amenities such as healthcare. Additionally, despite English being the first language of most Singaporeans, a foreigner might not understand the variation of English that most mainlanders speak.

Eugene, says: 2020

Singapore is a fine city with good discipline. You will have to get use to Singlish. A Paradise for food lover. Shopping is a culture. Carry your umbrella everywhere. Singapore has cool nightlife. Always follow the rules and correct procedure. Income tax is quite low so it’s a great thing.

Jegatheeswaran, says: 2020

Singapore is home to more than 5. eight million people. Uniquely, Singapore is its multiracial and multicultural society. With four core ethnicities, the first thing one would notice when setting foot in this county, are that signs and announcements are done in these four languages: English, Chinese, Malay, and Tamil. Singapore takes pride in cultivating a harmonious society and hence the ethnicities are interspersed with one another. Be it in housing or stalls in a food centre, one will get the opportunity to interact and immerse themselves in the different cultures and cuisines. Although Singapore may be a small county with predominantly only one season throughout the year, it is a fine city, safe from natural disasters.

Faustina, says: 2020

Singapore is well-known for the variety of food offered. he or she should be able to withstand the scorching heat and humid climate, especially if he or she were to stay in Singapore for long periods of time. he or she should learn how to speak simple English and Mandarin, to communicate with the locals effectively.

Singapore is a clean and systematic country. Living here is relatively safe compared to living in other nearby cities. We have a world class public transport system in place. Singaporeans mostly speak English and Mandarin. We are well known in the region for our ‘Singlish’, which is ‘Singaporean English’.

Chermaine, says: 2020
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