Konkani - The Official Spoken Language of Goa
Konkani is the official language of Goa and is spoken on the south coast of the country. According to research, 57% of Goans speak Konkani. If interacting with the locals is your thing, learning the language would definitely be an added bonus. You never know if talking in the local language might get you a good bargain in local shops, and cab drivers and get the hands-on information you might be unaware of.Marathi
Marathi sounds very similar to Konkani as both these languages belong to the Indo-Aryan group and are one of the most widely spoken languages in Goa. Some consider Konkani to be one of its dialects.Hindi
Though Konkani and Marathi are the major languages, you won't find any trouble in communicating in Hindi as it is a widely written and spoken language in Goa.English
English is a popular language in Goa amongst tourists and people in the urban localities. Goa attracts a plethora of visitors from abroad who are only fluent in English. Most locals have tried their hand at English to help them run their businesses effectively.Portuguese
Portuguese used to be the official language in Goa during the colonial. It was made compulsory to learn the language amongst the locals. Although the language is not extinct, some of the older generations are still familiar with it. You will also find the language being taught in educational institutions as a third language.
Kannada
Goa shares its borders with Karnataka and people from Karnataka moved to Goa for trade and business. The early settlers moved in the late 1800s. Therefore, about 5% of the people in Goa speak Kannada.
Common Phrases in Konkani
Since you'll be negotiating with vendors and drivers who are locals, the best way to make a good impression is by speaking their language. This may not only impress them but also help you when it comes to bargaining. Here are some common phrases and terms that might be helpful while in Goa.| English | Konkani Translation |
| I speak a little Konkani | Aoo thodee Konkani ooloyta |
| Can you help me? | Mhojem modot korshi? |
| I come from (place) | Mau zo gao ( place) |
| How do I go there? | Thuim hao kosso vossoonk |
| How much to (place)? | Vossoonk kitley pot ollay |
| Where can I make a phone call? | Maka phone karonc khuim meltolem |
| Please | Upkar koroonc |
| What is the charge per day? | Eke dissak kitley poi shay? |
| Thank you | Deu borem Korum |
These are the spoken languages in Goa. As a tourist, you will do just fine if you are fluent in Hindi and English.