Official language

An official language is designated by a government for use in public institutions and official communication. Its status may apply nationally or only within particular regions or institutions.

Language policy: Laws and practices that shape how languages are used, taught, and supported in a community. Official-language designation is one of the central tools governments use to implement language policy.
National language: A language associated with a nation's identity, heritage, or public life. A national language may be symbolic without having the same legal functions as an official language.
Official languages of Canada: English and French, which have official status in Canada's federal institutions. Canada's federal model gives both languages legal standing in national government.
Linguistic imperialism: The dominance of one language in ways that reinforce political or economic power over others. Official-language choices can preserve hierarchies inherited from conquest or colonial rule.
Constitution: The foundational legal framework that establishes a state's institutions and governing rules. A constitution may name official languages or authorize laws that determine their status.
Language of instruction: The language used to teach subjects in an educational setting. Governments often determine which languages schools must use or may offer.
De facto official language: A language used as an official language in practice without formal legal designation. This distinguishes practical government use from status explicitly established by law.
Official languages of Switzerland: German, French, Italian, and Romansh, with differing federal and regional rules. Switzerland combines multiple national languages with territorial and institutional distinctions.
Language shift: The process by which a community increasingly uses one language instead of another. Public institutions operating mainly in one language can contribute to pressure on other languages.
Legislation: Laws enacted by a legislative body. Statutes can define which languages public bodies must use and what services they provide.

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