Spanish-speaking countries: where is it an official language?

Spanish, also known as Castilian, is one of the most spoken languages in the world, and it spans across numerous countries. Each country has its own cultural richness, traditions, and linguistic peculiarities, as you will see below.

Here you will find a list of countries where Spanish is spoken and you will be able to see some differences in vocabulary, because, although it is the same language, some words are unique to each country where Spanish is spoken.

Spanish-Speaking Countries

Spanish is a vibrant language that has been enriched over the centuries thanks to influences from various cultures and regions. As Spanish spread throughout the world, each country adopted it and made it its own, adding its own touch and creating unique expressions.

List of countries where Spanish is an official language:

• Spain
• Mexico
• Argentina
• Bolivia
• Chile
• Colombia
• Costa Rica
• Cuba
• Ecuador
• El Salvador
• Guatemala
• Honduras
• Nicaragua
• Panama
• Paraguay
• Peru
• Puerto Rico
• Dominican Republic
• Uruguay
• Venezuela

Spain: the Cradle of the Spanish Language

Let's start with the country where the language was born: Spain. Although Spanish from Spain is considered "standard Spanish," this country also has its own linguistic peculiarities.

For example, while in other Spanish-speaking countries they say "banana," in Spain the term "plátano" is used. Even within Spanish territory, there are places where words are different. For example, on the mainland they say "autobús," while in the Canary Islands it is called "guagua".

Mexico

In Mexico, Spanish blends with a rich culinary tradition. Here, don't be surprised if you hear people talking about "chiles" instead of "pimientos" (peppers), or if they offer you an "elote" instead of a "mazorca de maíz" (corn cob). Food is a fundamental part of Mexican culture, and the language reflects this passion for cooking.

Argentina

Argentina is famous for its special language called "lunfardo," which incorporates words and expressions of Italian and Creole origin. If you visit Buenos Aires, you are likely to hear people talking about "laburar" (to work) or "guita" (money).

Argentines have a particular accent that will win you over and allow you to differentiate it from other countries where Spanish is spoken. Additionally, in Argentina, the word "vos" is used instead of "tú" when they speak.

Colombia

The Colombian accent is known for its musical and friendly tone. If you visit Colombia, you might hear people talking about "plata" instead of "dinero" (money). Furthermore, their accent is very characteristic and will surely sound familiar from Colombian soap operas like "Pasión de gavilanes."

Peru

Peru is a country with a rich indigenous heritage, and this influence is reflected in its language. Here, it is common to hear people talk about a "chompa" when they want to refer to a sweater.

Other Spanish-Speaking Countries

In addition to these examples, there are a large number of countries in Latin America and the Caribbean where Spanish is spoken. Other countries where Spanish is spoken are:

• Chile: where they use the word "lúcuma" instead of "chirimoya," a delicious fruit.
• Venezuela: here the banana is known as "cambur."
• Puerto Rico: just like in the Canary Islands, the word "guagua" is used for bus.
• Cuba: in this country, it is common to call foreigners "yuma," especially Americans.

Countries where Spanish is Spoken but is Not an Official Language

Spanish is also spoken in several countries and regions as a result of historical and cultural influence. These places are:

• United States: Spanish is widely spoken in areas with a significant Hispanic population, such as Texas, Florida, and California.
• Philippines: although it is not an official language, Spanish has a historical influence on the Filipino language.
• Western Sahara or Equatorial Guinea: Spanish is spoken in these regions due to Spanish colonial history.

Spanish-speaking countries are diverse and exciting places, as each one brings its own essence to Spanish. Exploring these differences in vocabulary and accent is part of the fun of learning this beautiful language.

So, if you are determined to improve your level of Spanish or if you simply want to immerse yourself in different cultures, join an intensive Spanish course with Enforex. You can choose from 11 different destinations in Spain and 9 Latin American countries where Spanish is spoken as an official language.