You don’t need to speak French when in Martinique, but it does help to know how to say a few words and phrases for ease of communication. Plus, packing a bit of creole can’t hurt either. It will always go a long way when you know a bit of the local language, as people appreciate when their culture is being respected, and, you never know, it might get you somewhere more authentic.
Do People in Martinique Speak French?
A French-based creole, also called Creole patois or Martinique creole, may be the most widely used in Martinique, but French also dominates most of Martinique’s daily social interactions. From spoken to written, politics to business. In a way, you can say that much of the island is bilingual, or multilingual.
Due to the island’s long-standing association with France, the French influence permeates most of the island’s culture, from traditions to the language they speak. Other than French, and Creole patois, English is also widely spoken, after creole, mainly in the business sector, particularly people who work in tourism.
Why Is Martinique a French Speaking Country?
Often considered as a francophone country due to its wide use of the French language, Martinique’s long history with France is probably the single best reason why Martinique speaks French. Since the beginning of the French colonial years, up to today, France has remained to be Martinique’s greatest influencer.
The island is also one of France’s official overseas territories, which means, apart from being a former colony, with the French culture deeply embedded in their culture, Martinique is also governed in the French way. Every social and civil aspect of the island is somewhat influenced by the French.
How Do You Say Martinique in French?
Phonetically, Martinique is spoken “maʁtinik”. Commonly read as “MAR-TI-NIK”, with the “R” spoken the French way, which is called a “guttural R”, a phonetic feature distinct in French, and can sometimes be observed in Danish, German, and Dutch.
Is English Spoken in Martinique?
A lot of Martinicans speak English to some degree, at least conversational. But English isn’t everybody’s first language on the island, so don’t expect perfectly understandable English all the time. Those who work in tourism might have a better grasp, but that doesn’t mean you have to be complacent and not learn a phrase or two in French.
The thing with learning the local languages can help you open doors and allow you to meet people who can give you a better perspective and experience in the Martiniquais life. If you ever find yourself booking a ticket to Martinique, learn a bit of French, and creole because respect goes a long way.
Do They Speak Creole in Martinique?
Martinique speaks a variation of creole, or Creole patois, or commonly called Martinique creole. It is based on French, and African languages with elements of English, Spanish and Portuguese. The language is often used in speaking, and oral storytelling, however, despite the island’s notable use of the language, French still holds the higher ground.
Martinique creole is said to be a form of Antillean creole, that is closely related to the ones spoken in neighboring English-speaking Lesser Antilles islands like Saint Lucia, and Dominica.
How Do You Say Hello in Martinique Creole?
In Martinique creole, to say hello, you can just say “bonjou”. And yes, it is a borrowed and somehow bastardized form of the French “hello” which is “bonjour!”. However, you can always say “bonjour!”, or “hello!” whenever you’re in Martinique.
How Many Languages Are Spoken in Martinique?
Two main languages are spoken in Martinique, French and Martinique creole. French, being the island’s most used and official language.
