Liechtenstein, with German as its official language, stands as the smallest among the European countries predominantly inhabited by German speakers. The local German dialect is Alemannic, a linguistic variant often considered a distinct language. Alemannic is part of a diverse language group that includes Swiss German (spoken by the majority in Switzerland), Alsatian (spoken in France's Alsace region), as well as variants spoken in Baden-Württemberg and Bavarian Swabia in Germany, and Vorarlberg in Austria.
Approximately 86% of Liechtenstein's population identifies as "ethnic Alemannic". Within the country, the southern regions predominantly speak Highest Alemannic, while the rest use High Alemannic.
How many people in Liechtenstein speak German?
The majority of Liechtenstein's residents communicate in German, with approximately 96.4% of the population considering it their primary language, as reported by Ethnologue. This high percentage underscores the widespread use and importance of the German language within the country.
Do they speak English in Liechtenstein?
In Liechtenstein, English is the primary foreign language spoken by about 15% of the population, exclusively as a second language.
Why German language in Liechtenstein?
The prevalence of the German language in Liechtenstein can be attributed to historical ties, geographical location, cultural influence, and its role in education and administration. Rooted in the country's history within the Holy Roman Empire, surrounded by German-speaking neighbors, and deeply ingrained in its cultural identity, German serves as both an official language and a means of communication in various aspects of daily life.