The British Royal Family is often associated with tradition, ceremony, and diplomacy. However, one lesser-known aspect of their role is their ability to speak multiple languages. From fluent French to conversational Spanish, and even phrases in Swahili or Māori, the languages the Royal Family speaks reveal a great deal about their cultural sensitivity.
Language skills among the royals aren’t just academic. They’re diplomatic tools. Whether delivering speeches abroad, honouring national identities within the UK, or engaging with international communities, members of the Royal Family use language to connect. This helps to build trust and represent Britain on the world stage.
We explore the linguistic abilities of both senior and younger royals, from the late Queen Elizabeth II to King Charles III, Prince William, and even Prince George and Princess Charlotte. You may be surprised by how many languages have been spoken through royal engagements.
The British Royal Family’s Linguistic Ability
The members of the British Royal Family are known for their poise, elegance, and adherence to tradition. However, their linguistic abilities are often hidden. From the Queen to the younger generations, the Royals possess an impressive command of multiple languages.
Late Queen Elizabeth II
When exploring the languages the Royal Family speaks, the Late Queen Elizabeth II stands out as a monarch. She not only improved diplomacy but also embraced linguistic skills. While English was her native language, Queen Elizabeth II was also fluent in French—a proficiency she maintained throughout her reign.
Her ability to speak French was more than ceremonial. On numerous state visits to France and during interactions with French-speaking dignitaries, she often chose to deliver speeches in French. This gesture earned her widespread respect and highlighted the soft power of multilingualism in diplomacy.
Unlike many public figures, the Queen never relied on interpreters for French engagements. This showcased a confident command of the language that reflected the importance she placed on cultural understanding. Her fluency symbolised the deep historical and diplomatic ties between the UK and France. It set a standard for the multilingual capabilities expected of the Royal Family.
King Charles III
Among the languages the Royal Family speaks, King Charles III demonstrates one of the most diverse linguistic profiles. As the reigning monarch, he reflects a global perspective shaped by decades of diplomacy, cultural engagement, and education.
English is his native language, but King Charles III is also fluent in French. He regularly speaks it during official engagements in Francophone countries. His fluency not only facilitates smooth diplomatic exchanges but also continues the legacy of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II.
In addition to French, the King has conversational ability in Welsh. This is a language he embraced deeply during his investiture as Prince of Wales in 1969. His efforts to learn Welsh were widely regarded as a symbol of respect toward the nation’s heritage and linguistic identity.
Charles also speaks moderate German, a skill tied to his family’s historical roots in Germany. Furthermore, he has some ability in Greek, reflecting his connection to the Greek royal family through his father, Prince Philip.
King Charles III’s multilingualism illustrates a broader royal commitment to cultural awareness, diplomacy, and respect. This shows that when it comes to languages the Royal Family speaks.
Queen-Consort Camila
Queen Consort Camilla maintains a simpler linguistic profile, but one that still reflects cultural openness. English is her native language, and she has a basic understanding of French.
Unlike other senior royals, Camilla has not made language learning a prominent part of her public role. However, as Queen Consort, she continues to support international engagements where language and diplomacy intersect. This is often alongside King Charles III, whose multilingual skills complement their joint appearances.
While she may not be multilingual, Camilla plays an important role in representing the monarchy on the global stage. This highlights how diplomacy can extend beyond language alone.
Prince William
Prince William reflects a new generation of monarchy: diplomatic, globally engaged, and linguistically capable. When it comes to the languages the Royal Family speaks, his skill set showcases formal education.
English is his native language, but William is also conversational in French. This skill was honed during his education and used in official speeches and visits abroad. He has also studied Welsh, showing respect for his former title as Prince of Wales. His ability to speak Welsh at public events has been praised as a meaningful gesture toward national identity.
In addition to these, Prince William has demonstrated knowledge of basic Spanish. He uses simple phrases during engagements with Spanish-speaking communities. His travels in Africa, particularly Kenya and Tanzania, have also seen him use basic Swahili greetings. This reflects both personal interest and cultural awareness.
Though not fluent in multiple languages, Prince William’s multilingual efforts reflect a broader royal tradition of diplomacy through language. He brings a modern and multicultural dimension to the throne.
Kate Middleton (Duchess of Cambridge)
Catherine, Princess of Wales, brings a modest but meaningful linguistic contribution. Her native language is English, and she has a basic understanding of French, a skill developed during her school years.
While she is not known to speak French fluently or conversationally, Kate has occasionally used short French phrases during public engagements. This occurs especially on international visits where a respectful nod to the local language can strengthen diplomatic ties.
Though her language abilities are limited compared to other senior royals, Kate’s elegance and cultural awareness shine through. Her efforts reflect the Royal Family’s ongoing commitment to international diplomacy, even when language is used sparingly.
Prince Harry
Prince Harry stands out more for his global engagement than for multilingual fluency. His native language is English, and while he has used basic phrases in several languages, such as Arabic, Māori, and Samoan, these gestures have primarily been symbolic rather than conversational.
Unlike his brother, Prince William, or his father, King Charles III, Prince Harry is not fluent or conversational in languages like Spanish or French. However, during royal tours and charitable work, he has often greeted audiences in their native languages. This demonstrates cultural respect and emotional intelligence.
His use of local greetings and simple phrases reflects a modern approach to diplomacy: connecting with people through effort, empathy, and presence.
Meghan Markle (Duchess of Sussex)
Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, brings a distinctly international edge. A native English speaker, Meghan also speaks conversational Spanish, a skill she developed while interning at the U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires.
In addition to Spanish, Meghan has a basic to intermediate understanding of French, having studied the language during her education. Though not fluent, her familiarity with French reflects a broader cultural awareness and adaptability.
As a modern royal figure with a global platform, Meghan exemplifies how language can support empathy, outreach, and diplomacy
The Younger Royals
Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis are all native English speakers. However, their early exposure to other languages reflects the evolving, international role of the future royal family.
From a young age, the children have been learning Spanish through their nanny, Maria Teresa Turrion Borrallo, who is a native of Spain. Reports have noted that Charlotte and George began picking up Spanish words in early childhood.
In addition to their Spanish exposure at home, the young royals are also being taught French at school. Their schools include French in the core curriculum from the early years. This ensures that they develop a basic foundation in one of the world’s most widely spoken languages.
While it’s too early to know how fluent they’ll become, the young royals’ multilingual beginnings signal a strong continuation of the royal tradition of global awareness and cultural respect.
The Importance of Language Skills for the Royal Family
Language has always played a crucial role in royal diplomacy. The languages the Royal Family speaks are not just a reflection of personal education or cultural interest. They serve as tools in their global responsibilities.
- Enabling Communication: Language skills allow members of the Royal Family to engage directly with dignitaries, leaders, and citizens across the world. This often occurs without the need for interpreters.
- Demonstrating Global Commitment: Whether it’s delivering a speech in French or greeting a crowd in Swahili, multilingualism signals the Royal Family’s dedication to diplomacy, outreach, and meaningful cross-cultural interaction.
- Reflecting a Cosmopolitan Monarchy: As the British monarchy continues to evolve in a globalised world, language learning reflects its broader transformation. It has moved from a traditional institution to a modern, culturally aware symbol of unity and connection.