Moving to Brussels next month, so trying to decide which language to start learning now. Saw some things online about different regions but am confused. What language is used in Brussels?
antwerp_newbie_frWhat language is used in Brussels?
antwerp_newbie_frAccepted answer
vibe_check_be_proBoth. It is officially bilingual so French and Dutch are the legal ones. In reality you will mostly hear French in shops or when talking to strangers. English works fine for most things too.
- French is most common
- Dutch is the other official one
- English is everywhere in business
Replies
been_there_done_thatA meeting in the European Quarter a few years ago comes to mind... there were people speaking French and others speaking Dutch and nobody could quite understand anyone else. We ended up using English as a neutral middle ground so we could actually get some work done!
old_guard_vla2Lately, I've noticed more Dutch speakers moving into the city. The linguistic balance might shift more towards Flemish influence in the coming years. Cheers
wafflelover882Just learn French so you can order a waffle without looking lost... but honestly just bring chocolate and everyone will love you.