Linguistic diversity in Mauritius: when French combines with other languages
Mauritius, a paradise island located in the Indian Ocean, is a true cultural melting pot where several languages coexist harmoniously. Beyond Mauritian Creole, considered the mother tongue of the majority of inhabitants, French occupies a particular place in the Mauritian linguistic landscape. Despite more than a century of British presence and English which has established itself as the language of administration, French has managed to maintain its vitality and relevance in Mauritian society.
The history of Mauritius is closely linked to that of France. The island, formerly called “Isle de France”, was colonized by the French for almost a century. This linguistic influence is still felt today, with French spoken by three-quarters of the Mauritian population, according to the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF). French is particularly used in business and educational environments, where it is considered prestigious and valued.
But French in Mauritius is not simply limited to a historical imprint. There is a real linguistic mix between French and the other languages present on the island. Mauritians are used to juggling between French and English, using terms from both languages depending on the contexts and communication needs. This linguistic gymnastics is particularly common in spoken language, where speakers easily mix the two languages without this causing any problems for their interlocutor.
This fusion of languages is also present in writing, particularly in the Mauritian press. Journalists use English terms intentionally, to avoid ambiguity and to accommodate the English-speaking audience. We also find anglicisms and creolisms in Mauritian French, testifying to the influence of English in the language. This phenomenon is accepted and even appreciated by Mauritians, considering these borrowings as an opening and enrichment of their language.
Linguistic diversity in Mauritius is not limited to French and English. Mauritian Creole, mother tongue of 90% of the inhabitants, occupies a primordial place in Mauritian society. This vernacular language, resulting from a mixture of French, English and African and Indian languages, is the everyday language, the one which expresses the cultural identity and conviviality of Mauritians.
In short, linguistic diversity in Mauritius is a real asset for the island. French, as a language inherited from colonial history, continues to shine in official and intellectual spheres. But it coexists harmoniously with English and Creole, testifying to the cultural richness of Mauritius. This fusion of languages demonstrates the ability of Mauritians to adapt and adopt different linguistic expressions, thus creating a unique and plural identity.