Landessprache

Landessprache is a term used in German-speaking contexts to describe the language that is official or predominant in a country, a constituent state, or a region. It typically refers to the language used in government, administration, education, and public life, and it often reflects the language most widely spoken by the population. The exact status of a Landessprache can vary: in some cases it coincides with the official language designated by law (often labeled Amtssprache); in others it is a descriptive term for the language commonly used in public affairs, without formal legal status.

In multilingual states, there may be multiple Landessprachen. The designation can differ by level and region, with some countries recognizing several official languages and others granting official status only to certain languages in particular cantons or regions. The concept thus blends legal status with the practical use of language in education, administration, and media, and it can be connected to national identity as well as to minority language rights.

Common examples and usage vary by country. In many German-speaking countries, German serves as the primary Landessprache for national administration and schooling. In multilingual contexts, other languages may also be designated as Landessprachen in specific areas or at the subnational level, such as cantons or states. The term is distinct from, but related to, Muttersprache (mother tongue) and Amtssprache (official language).

See also: Amtssprache, Muttersprache, language policy.