Languages in Vanuatu
Vanuatu is linguistically fascinating - 113 indigenous languages plus three official languages make it one of the most linguistically diverse places on Earth per capita.
Official Languages
1. Bislama (National Language):
- English-based pidgin/creole
- Lingua franca between different language groups
- Widely spoken throughout the country
- Relatively easy for English speakers to understand
- Official language of Parliament
2. English:
- Official language
- Used in business, government, education
- Widely understood in Port Vila
- Tourism industry operates in English
- British English spelling
3. French:
- Official language (colonial heritage)
- Significant French-speaking community
- Some schools use French curriculum
- Government documents in French and English
- Less common than English among locals
Indigenous Languages
113 distinct languages (not dialects) - the highest language density per capita in the world. Each island or village group may have its own language.
This means:
- Bislama developed as a common language
- Older generations may speak local language primarily
- Young people increasingly speak Bislama and English/French
Bislama Basics
Bislama is surprisingly learnable for English speakers. Many words are recognizable:
| Bislama | English |
|---|---|
| Halo | Hello |
| Tankyu (tumas) | Thank you (very much) |
| Plis | Please |
| Gud moning | Good morning |
| Wanem nem blong yu? | What is your name? |
| Mi no save | I don't know/understand |
| Hamas? | How much? |
| Olgeta | Everyone/all |
| Blong | Of/belonging to |
| Yu go wea? | Where are you going? |
Learning Bislama:
- Locals love when expats try
- Books and resources available
- Immersion is the best teacher
- Not required but highly appreciated
English Proficiency
In Port Vila:
- High English proficiency
- Tourism, business, government operate in English
- Most signage in English
- No language barrier for daily life
Outside Port Vila:
- English less common
- Bislama essential
- Older locals may speak little English
- Children often learning English in school
For Expats
Do you need to learn Bislama?
- Port Vila: Not essential, but helpful and appreciated
- Outside Port Vila: Very helpful, shows respect
- Long-term residence: Strongly recommended
Resources:
- Bislama dictionaries and phrasebooks
- Language courses occasionally offered
- Online resources and apps
- Best learning: Conversation with locals
French in Vanuatu
Where French is prominent:
- French schools (Lycée)
- Some government departments
- French expat community
- Historical administrative areas
Useful if:
- Children in French school system
- Working with French-speaking community
- Interest in French Pacific region
Business Language
In practice:
- Email and contracts: English (or French)
- Meetings with locals: Often Bislama or English
- Official documents: English and French
- Tourism: English
Cultural Communication
Beyond language:
- Ni-Vanuatu communication is indirect and polite
- Saying "no" directly is rude - watch for soft refusals
- Eye contact norms differ by culture
- Patience in conversation appreciated
- Stories and indirect discussion valued
Tips for Language Success
- Learn "Tankyu tumas" - Thank you very much (always appreciated)
- Try Bislama - Locals light up when expats make effort
- Don't assume - Ask if English is understood
- Be patient - Language mixing is normal
- Listen to local radio - Great for picking up Bislama
- Accept imperfection - Your effort matters more than fluency
Pro Tips
- •English is widely spoken in Port Vila - no language barrier for daily life
- •Learning basic Bislama earns huge appreciation from locals
- •Bislama is surprisingly easy for English speakers - give it a try
- •French is useful if your children attend French school
- •Communication is often indirect - learn to read between the lines
Have questions about language in Vanuatu?