Language of Goa - All About Konkani & Other Goan Language

The official spoken language of Goa is Konkani, followed by Hindi, English, Portuguese, Marathi, Urdu, and Kannada. Due to the Portuguese rule in Goa that lasted for over 450 years, the state hosts people of various regions, ethnic races, and religions from India and abroad. Another reason that Goa is a great place to visit for tourists is because of how widely spoken English is, making it a very accessible place to visit for tourists from around the country.

Konkani - The Official Spoken Language of Goa

Konkani is the official language of Goa and is spoken on the south coast of the country. According to research, 57% of Goans speak Konkani. If interacting with the locals is your thing, learning the language would definitely be an added bonus. You never know if talking in the local language might get you a good bargain in local shops, and cab drivers and get the hands-on information you might be unaware of. 

Marathi

Marathi sounds very similar to Konkani as both these languages belong to the Indo-Aryan group and are one of the most widely spoken languages in Goa. Some consider Konkani to be one of its dialects.

Hindi

Though Konkani and Marathi are the major languages, you won't find any trouble in communicating in Hindi as it is a widely written and spoken language in Goa.

English

English is a popular language in Goa amongst tourists and people in the urban localities. Goa attracts a plethora of visitors from abroad who are only fluent in English. Most locals have tried their hand at English to help them run their businesses effectively.

Portuguese

Portuguese used to be the official language in Goa during the colonial. It was made compulsory to learn the language amongst the locals. Although the language is not extinct, some of the older generations are still familiar with it. You will also find the language being taught in educational institutions as a third language.
Languages spoken in Goa
Source

Kannada

Goa shares its borders with Karnataka and people from Karnataka moved to Goa for trade and business. The early settlers moved in the late 1800s. Therefore, about 5% of the people in Goa speak Kannada. 

Languages of Goa

Common Phrases in Konkani

Since you'll be negotiating with vendors and drivers who are locals, the best way to make a good impression is by speaking their language. This may not only impress them but also help you when it comes to bargaining. Here are some common phrases and terms that might be helpful while in Goa.

English Konkani Translation
I speak a little Konkani       Aoo thodee Konkani ooloyta
Can you help me? Mhojem modot korshi?
I come from (place) Mau zo gao ( place)
How do I go there? Thuim hao kosso vossoonk
How much to (place)? Vossoonk kitley pot ollay
Where can I make a phone call? Maka phone karonc khuim meltolem
Please Upkar koroonc
What is the charge per day? Eke dissak kitley poi shay?
Thank you Deu borem Korum

These are the spoken languages in Goa. As a tourist, you will do just fine if you are fluent in Hindi and English.

This post was published by Yash Saboo

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