A friendly, quick guide to how people in Mexico talk

Someone asked, “What is the Mexican language?” Cute question! Let’s answer it fast so you sound super smart at dinner. Ready? Go.

Short answer: There is no single “Mexican language.” Most people in Mexico speak Spanish (often called Mexican Spanish). Mexico also has many Indigenous languages. The country recognizes 68 Indigenous language groups—plus Spanish—as national languages.

So… what do people speak in Mexico?

Think of Mexico like a big taco platter. Not just one taco! You’ll hear Spanish in most places. You’ll also hear Indigenous languages in homes, schools, markets, and towns across the country.

• Spanish: The everyday language for most people.
• Indigenous languages: Nahuatl, Maya (Yucatec), Mixtec, Zapotec, Otomí, Tzeltal, Tzotzil, Purépecha, and many more.
• Mexican Sign Language (LSM): Used by Deaf communities in Mexico.

What is “Mexican Spanish”?

It’s Spanish with local flavor—like salsa on your chips.

• Words: You’ll hear fun phrases like “¡Qué padre!” (That’s cool!) and “¡Órale!” (Wow/okay/let’s go!).
• Sounds: Clear, friendly, and musical. People often say ustedes instead of vosotros for “you all.”
• Nahuatl roots: Everyday words in English came from Nahuatl through Mexican Spanish—like chocolate, tomato, avocado, coyote, and chili.

Indigenous languages you might hear

These are living voices with stories, jokes, songs, and science inside them.

• Nahuatl: Spoken in central Mexico; the language of many Aztec histories.
• Maya (Yucatec): Common in Yucatán, Campeche, and Quintana Roo.
• Mixtec & Zapotec: From Oaxaca and beyond, with many local varieties.
• Otomí, Tzeltal, Tzotzil, Purépecha: Spoken in different regions with rich traditions.

How to be kind and correct

Instead of asking, “Do you speak Mexican?” try:

• “Do you prefer Spanish, Nahuatl, or another language?”
• “Which language should we use?”

Fun language snack: quick phrases

• ¿Mande? = “Pardon?” or “What did you say?” (very polite)
• Ahorita = “Right now”… or “soon.” Context matters (and jokes do, too!).
• Bueno = “Hello” when you answer the phone.

Why this matters

Languages carry family, food, music, and memories. In Mexico, Spanish and Indigenous languages are protected and valued. When we use the right words, we show respect.

Super-simple takeaway

No, “Mexican” is not a language. Mexico is a country with many languages. Spanish is the main one, and 68 Indigenous language groups—plus Mexican Sign Language—also live and thrive there. That’s not just one taco. That’s the whole feast.

Tiny FAQ

Is “Mexican” a language? No.

What do most people speak? Spanish (Mexican Spanish).

Are there other languages? Yes—many Indigenous languages and Mexican Sign Language (LSM).

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