English In Austria: Getting By Or Going Native?

English is widely spoken in Austria, especially in the country's larger cities and popular tourist areas. English is taught in schools from the age of seven, and 73% of the population speaks the language. However, German is the country's official language, and Austrians appreciate it when visitors make an effort to use some German phrases. While you can get by with English in Austria, it is always good to learn some basic phrases in the local language.

English is widely spoken in Austria

English is also the lingua franca of the overarching corporate world, and many well-educated Austrians speak English. In addition, streaming services, social media, and online interactions have helped the younger generation improve their English language skills.

However, it is worth noting that German is the official language of Austria, and Austrians may be reserved and insular if you don't attempt to communicate in their native language. While you are unlikely to offend anyone by addressing them in English, especially in popular tourist areas, it is always useful to learn a few key German phrases.

Austrians appreciate it if you attempt to learn some German

Austrians appreciate it when visitors attempt to learn some German, and it will help you get by during your stay. While English is widely spoken in Austria, German is the country's official language, and almost all of the population (98%) speaks it.

Austrian German is quite different from the German spoken in Germany, and you will need to know a certain set of vocabulary and be able to understand the accent. For example, in Germany, you would say "Guten Tag" to greet people, whereas in Austria, you would say "Grüß Gott". In Berlin, you would ask for your sandwich on a "Brötchen" (bread roll), but in Austria, these are known as "Semmel".

Austrians tend to be very patient and encouraging of those learning their language. They consider German to be extremely difficult, so they will likely be understanding if you stumble over your words. Attempting to speak German will also help you feel more like a local and aid your integration into the local culture.

If you are planning to live with native speakers, this will help you learn colloquialisms faster and give you more opportunities to practice. Austrians are familiar with other languages, and many are even fluent in English, so don't worry if your German skills are lacking. However, if you want to lease an apartment, deal with a bank, or handle other administrative tasks, it would be beneficial to have at least a basic understanding of German.

To improve your German skills before your trip, consider listening to Austrian music and radio, watching Austrian TV shows and movies, and practicing your skills at restaurants and other service-driven spots. You can also look for language-learning apps or join a social organization or club to meet native speakers and immerse yourself in the language.

Austrians are reserved and respect each other's personal bubble

Austrians are known for their reserved nature and respect for personal space. They value their physical and personal privacy, especially when they are among strangers. This means that it is customary to ask for permission before taking photos or videos of someone. It is also expected that you knock on doors before entering.

Austrians tend to be formal and polite during initial conversations. They are also direct and straightforward communicators, speaking honestly and clearly. They will not ask personal questions until a relationship has been established. Austrians are modest and reserved and do not like to draw attention to themselves through loud voices, inappropriate dress, or excessive compliments.

In terms of physical contact, Austrians are reserved but affectionate. Public displays of affection, such as kissing, hugging, and touching, are accepted. However, during a conversation, they do not typically touch each other as this can be seen as an invasion of privacy. An arm's length of distance is usually kept between people when conversing, and any closer proximity may be interpreted as an infringement of personal space.

Austrians also place importance on eye contact during conversations, considering it a sign of respect and politeness. However, in hierarchical relationships, it is respectful to occasionally lower one's gaze. Staring is not considered appropriate eye contact. When speaking to a group, it is important to distribute your eye contact equally among all the members.

Austrians are unlikely to be offended if you address them in English

English is widely spoken in Austria, especially among younger, well-educated Austrians. According to Education First's English Proficiency Index, 73% of the population of Austria speaks English, with Austrians in every age group outperforming European averages for spoken English. This is due to the strong emphasis on English language education in schools, with children receiving regular tuition in English from a young age. Additionally, the younger generation improves their English through streaming services, social media, and online interactions. As a result, you are unlikely to encounter language barriers when addressing Austrians in English, especially in urban areas and the tourism industry.

However, it is important to remain respectful and avoid expecting everyone to speak English. While English is common, German is the official language of Austria, and it is always a good idea to learn some basic phrases to show respect for the local culture. Greeting people with a "Guten Tag" or "Gruss Gott" is considered good manners, and learning phrases like "Bitte" (please), "Danke" (thank you), and "Enschuldegung" (excuse me) can go a long way.

Additionally, Austrians tend to be more reserved and insular, so it is important to be mindful of cultural differences. Respecting personal space and avoiding loud and boisterous behaviour will help you fit in better with the local culture.

English is taught in Austrian schools

English is widely spoken in Austria, with around 70-75% of the population speaking English to some degree. This is due to the language being widely taught in schools, with children receiving regular English lessons from the age of seven upwards.

English is enough to study in Austria, but it might not be enough to live there. Learning some basic German phrases is a good idea.

English is taught at Austrian universities, with numerous English-taught Bachelor's and Master's degrees available. The main language of instruction at Austrian universities is German. However, there are also over 40 English-taught PhDs and over 15 English-taught distance learning degrees.

Some recommended English-taught universities in Austria include:

• Central European University (CEU)
• University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria
• Vienna University of Economics and Business
• FH Kufstein Tirol – University of Applied Sciences

Frequently asked questions