Language identity and etiquette

This Topic is for anyone thinking about moving to Spain, planning a move or already there. It helps you act respectfully and with confidence around a regional language, without taking sides. You will learn how to handle locals who switch languages on you, which courtesy words are worth knowing, how to read and say place names, and whether skipping the regional language costs you belonging.

Start with "Language and identity in Spain: a neutral guide to sensitivities". It explains why regional languages are sensitive and how to talk about them calmly. After that, read the pages on language switching, courtesy words, place names and pronunciation, and friendships, in whatever order matches your questions.

Key rules

• Co-official: Spanish is official everywhere, and Catalan, Valencian, Galician, Basque and Aranese are co-official only in certain regions.
• Dialects: Catalan, Galician and Basque are languages, not dialects, so avoid calling them dialects.
• Why they switch: Switching to Spanish or English is usually politeness, not a sign that you are unwelcome.
• Persisting: Say you are learning, keep answering in the regional language, and thank the person.
• Greeting and thanks: A greeting and a thank-you in the local language earn the most goodwill for the least effort.
• Valencian name: In Valencian territory, say valencià or Valencian unless the other person says Catalan first.

Language identity and etiquette: questions that cross several articles

Which regional languages are co-official with Spanish?

Catalan, Valencian, Galician and Basque are co-official with Spanish in their regions, and Aranese is co-official in Catalonia. Catalan is co-official in Catalonia and the Balearic Islands, Valencian in the Valencian Community, Galician in Galicia, and Basque in the Basque Country and the Basque-speaking zone of Navarre. Asturian and Aragonese are protected but not co-official. Read "Language and identity in Spain: a neutral guide to sensitivities" for the wider picture.

Is language equally sensitive in every region?

No, language is most politically charged in Catalonia and the Balearics, and least in Galicia. Valencia has its own dispute over whether Valencian and Catalan are one language, and the Basque Country sits in between with less open conflict. See Does skipping the regional language cost you local friendships?.

Should I greet people in the local language or in Spanish?

Greet in the local language if you know a few words, such as "bon dia", "bos días" or "egun on", then carry on in Spanish unless the other person switches. Almost everyone speaks Spanish, and an attempt at the local language is appreciated. Read "Courtesy words in Catalan, Galician and Basque that earn goodwill" for the phrases that pay off most.

What if locals answer me in Spanish or English when I try their language?

Follow the language the other person uses, and keep trying only if they seem happy to help. English is usually fine in tourist areas and cities, but staff in everyday places may prefer Spanish or the local language. Read "When locals answer in Spanish or English after you try their language" for how to persist politely.

What wording keeps a first conversation about languages neutral?

Say "the local language" or use its local name, and ask "Which language do you prefer?". Asking how to say a word in the local language is usually welcome. Avoid calling Catalan, Galician or Basque a dialect, and steer clear of independence, the Franco era and school policy. See Courtesy words in Catalan, Galician and Basque that earn goodwill.