Here’s a breakdown of the languages spoken in Dominica:
1. Official Language: English
- English is the official language used in government, education, media, and business.
- Taught in schools and used for formal communication.
- Most Dominicans are fluent in English.
2. Dominican Creole French (Kwéyòl)
- A French-based Creole language widely spoken informally across the island.
- Known locally as Kwéyòl or Patwa.
- Influences: French vocabulary + African grammar + Kalinago + English.
- Used in:
- Folk stories
- Songs and music (especially Cadence-lypso and Bouyon)
- Cultural festivals (like Independence Day)
- Spoken especially among older generations and in rural communities.
- There are efforts to preserve and promote it in schools and cultural events.
3. Kalinago Language (Extinct but Revered)
- The original language of the Kalinago people is no longer fluently spoken.
- Some words and phrases survive, and there are cultural revival efforts in the Kalinago Territory to preserve their linguistic heritage.
Language Usage in Society
- Bilingualism is common (English + Kwéyòl).
- Kwéyòl is gaining cultural respect and pride — used in radio, music, and festivals like Jounen Kwéyòl (Creole Day).
Language in Education
- Instruction is in English.
- Kwéyòl is not formally taught in most schools, but some cultural programs and community classes exist to teach it.
