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What languages are spoken in Sri Lanka?

The two official languages (as per the Sri Lankan government) are Sinhalese and Tamil, I was wondering which (if either) is spoken the most, or if the most common form of speech is a dialect from another language entirely, or if the vernacular is different in different arias. In short, if I was to go to Sri Lanka, what language should I learn first?

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    Jane
    Posted 1 year ago

    Sinhalese and Tamil are the two official languages of Sri Lanka. English is fluently spoken by approximately 10% of the population, and is widely used for education, scientific and commercial purposes. Members of the Burgher community speak variant forms of Portuguese Creole and Dutch with varying proficiency, while members of the Malay community speak a form of creole Malay that is unique to the island.

      jamesbergen50
      Posted 1 year ago

      Most of the better educated there speak a semi strange English,Ause,mix of English. It was a English colony at one time. Tamil is kind of out. They lost there rebellion. Unless you need to work in the rule areas. Don’t get in a public dispute, With the upper crust. In a public place. On any thing. They all have body guards. Looking for practice! Keep it private so they don’t loose face! Food is not to bad there. Rule ares are very poor. So be carefull there. And there industry is in a slump at present. So you are ok on English in the bigger city’s there.

        Ridha
        Posted 1 year ago

        Sinhala is spoken in Sri Lanka the way you say whats your names is “mokada oyage namee”.

        Hope that Helps :D .

          Lilly tity
          Posted 1 year ago

          If u plan to reside for only a brief period English is enough. But it is not spoken fluently (But most of the time understood) in rural areas. You should learn Sinhalese which is spoken & understood by the majority if you plan to stay for a long period.
          As for what is your name it should be corrected as ” Oyaage nama mokakda?’

          It is a beautiful country & hope u visit it.

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