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English language knowledge in United Kingdom

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language knowledge /eu publishes the latest language knowledge statistics for English in United Kingdom using European Commission data published in 2024. Compare native with foreign speakers, and compare age groups to understand whether English is gaining or losing popularity.

Ages
Speakers
97.3%
of the population in United Kingdom speaks English in 2012 (All)
2nd
United Kingdom is 2nd in Europe
for English speakers in 2012
1st
English is the 1st language
in United Kingdom in 2012

Knowledge by Age Cohort

Speakers
Year
All
97.3%
55+
98.6%
35-54
97.0%
15-34
96.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of people speak English in United Kingdom?

According to European Commission Eurobarometer survey data (2012), 97.3% of the population in United Kingdom speaks English (87.6% native speakers and 9.8% foreign speakers).

How many people in United Kingdom speak English as a native vs foreign language?

In United Kingdom, 87.6% of the population speaks English as a native language, and 9.8% speaks it as a foreign language.

How does English knowledge in United Kingdom differ between age groups?

In United Kingdom, 96.2% of 15–34 year olds speak English, compared to 98.6% of residents aged 55 and over.