Egyptians primarily speak Arabic, with the official language being Modern Standard Arabic, which is used in formal writing, education, and official documents across the country
. However, the everyday spoken language is Egyptian Arabic (also called Masri or Masry), a vernacular dialect based mainly on the dialect of Cairo. Egyptian Arabic is the most widely spoken and understood dialect in Egypt and is also the most familiar Arabic dialect across the Arab world due to Egypt's influential media and entertainment industry
. Besides Egyptian Arabic, there are several other dialects and minority languages spoken in Egypt:
- Sa'idi Arabic is spoken in Upper Egypt, particularly near the Sudanese border
- Nubian languages (such as Nobiin and Kenuzi) are spoken by Nubian communities in southern Egypt around Kom Ombo and Aswan
- Siwi , a Berber language, is spoken by about 30,000 people in the Siwa Oasis and surrounding areas
- Bedawi Arabic is spoken by Bedouin groups in eastern Egypt and the deserts
- Other minority languages include Greek, Armenian, Italian, and some immigrant languages
The ancient Egyptian language, once spoken in pharaonic times, is now extinct but survives as Coptic, which is used mainly as a liturgical language by the Coptic Orthodox Church
. Additionally, many educated Egyptians speak English and/or French as second languages, reflecting Egypt's diverse linguistic heritage and educational system
. In summary, Egyptians speak:
- Official and written: Modern Standard Arabic
- Common spoken: Egyptian Arabic (Masri)
- Regional/minority languages: Sa'idi Arabic, Nubian languages, Siwi Berber, Bedawi Arabic
- Liturgical: Coptic (for religious purposes)
- Foreign languages: English and French widely known among educated populations
