Our Scottish Languages - Dialects and Phrases

Scotland’s most prominent language by usage is English – or our distinct version of it, but did you know that it is not the only language spoken in Scotland today? Thanks to our rich history and vibrant culture, we have three official languages: Scottish English, Scots and the original Celtic language of Gaelic.

National Library of Scotland

National Library of Scotland

© VisitScotland / Phil Wilkinson

Get to Know Scotland's Languages

English and Scots serve as the primary languages for most daily communication, while Gaelic is frequently encountered across certain regions and communities. Let’s delve a little bit deeper to understand the differences between the native Scottish languages. 

Scottish Standard English

Scottish Standard English (SSE) is the national standardised variety of Global English, and it has been Scotland’s main language since the 18th century.

The National Library of Scotland

The Scots Language

The Scots language is not really a variety of English, but rather it’s considered a ‘sister’ language of Scottish English since they both came from Anglic (aka Old English).

Leakey's Bookshop, Inverness

© @bean_nighe

Gaelic

Gaelic, the ancient tongue of Scotland, is thought to be the founding language of Scotland that originates from Ireland.

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