Johannesburg - Post Report Question and Answers
How much of the local language do you need for daily living? Are local language classes/tutors available and affordable?
English gets you everywhere you need to be. - Aug 2023
English seems to be the language of getting stuff done, at least in the larger cities, but it’s always appreciated if you take the time to learn a few key phrases in the major dialects. - Aug 2022
English is spoken everywhere except outside the cities, where any number of the other 11 official languages might be prevalent. I have had many encounters with people who only spoke Afrikaans / Zulu / Xhosa, but still managed to communicate. Classes are available in any of these languages at language centres in the city, especially at Wits. - Jun 2022
None - but I learned basic greetings in nearly all the official languages, which helped me in the office and on the street. As everyone likes to point out on this site, the locals appreciate any effort to learn their language and culture. - Oct 2019
English is widely spoken, no need for another language. Local and foreign language tutors are available. - Apr 2017
Learn some phrases in Zulu. Not because you need to in order to get by, but because the Zulu speakers will really appreciate having their culture acknowledged. - Sep 2016
almost everyone speaks english. - Aug 2011
Almost everyone speaks English. The only issue is whether they understand your American accent and you understand the South African accent. But overall it's fine. - Jul 2010
English is widely spoken. - Oct 2009
