Learn Walloon

Bondjoû! Welcome!

Welcome to this enhanced conversation guide. We've taken a hands-on approach to help you learn the basics of a language quickly. We suggest that you start by memorizing practical words and phrases that you can use every day at home and that will then come in handy if you want to integrate in Wallonia, . Practicing pronouncing vocabulary out loud, such as numbers, is a good exercise that can be done at any time of the day. This will get you used to the sounds of a language.

Walloon: a historical language conducive to the expression of humor and folk wisdom

1. History and origins of Walloon

Walloon is a Romance language spoken mainly in Wallonia, the French-speaking region of southern Belgium. Of Latin origin, it is derived from Gallo-Romance, as is French. Over the centuries, Walloon has undergone various influences, including Germanic and Celtic languages, as well as local dialects. The Walloon language has been strongly influenced by the history of Belgium, whose culture is a tasty mix of traditions and foreign influences. So, ready to embark on a linguistic and humorous journey through the twists and turns of the Walloon language?

2. Current situation and characteristics of Walloon

The Walloon language is characterized by a great dialectal diversity, with sometimes very marked regional variations. So don't be surprised if you hear Walloon speakers expressing themselves differently from one town to another, it's simply the charm of Walloon at work!

Walloon is also distinguished by its particular pronunciation and specific vocabulary, which make it a language in its own right. It is known for its lilting accent and syntax, which may occasionally seem strange to speakers of French. Nevertheless, the Walloon language has retained many aspects of Latin, which makes it familiar to Romance language enthusiasts. So don't panic, it's never too late to start learning Walloon and its subtleties!

3. Walloon and humor: an inseparable duo

Walloon is often associated with humor and conviviality. Indeed, the Walloon language has given birth to many authors, comedians and humorists who have taken advantage of its comical and picturesque side. From café-theater shows to one-man shows, via songwriters and poets, the Walloon language has always been a fertile ground for the expression of humor and derision.

The Walloon language is also used in many popular expressions and proverbs, which reflect the wisdom and humor of the people of Wallonia. So, if you want to fully understand and appreciate Walloon humor, it's time to dive into this multifaceted language. After all, as the Walloon proverb goes, "Cwèri, c'est d'jà comènçî!" (To believe is already to begin!).

Why speak Walloon today?

Walloon is not a museum language: its speakers are located between Liege and the USA!

Walloon is spoken mainly in Luxembourg (except for the provinces of Gaume and Arlon), Namur, Liège, Walloon Brabant, Charleroi as well as in eastern Hainaut. In addition, this dialect is also spoken in France, especially in the Ardennes.

And, although it may seem surprising, the Oïl language is, also, present in Green Bay and Wisconsin, in the United States. And it has been since the 19th century!

How do you get your pronunciation right?

Thanks to Unified Walloon, a common writing system between the above languages, all Walloon words are written the same way. Then, their pronunciation differs from one region to another.

Does it seem complicated to know which Walloon to speak? Especially since there are 14 regions that speak Walloon! But, you should know that the 14 dialects are mixed and are only distinguished by the pronunciation.

The Walloon alphabet

The Oïl language uses the same alphabet as the French language.

In addition, the letters are pronounced the same way as well, except for the "w" and "y". The first is called wé instead of "double V." And the second is called yod. Besides, the Walloon alphabet has another peculiarity which is the chief round which is used only above the letter "a" (å). For example: Årdene.

In addition, the circumflex accent above the vowels represents the length of the pronunciation of the words; and allows, by the same occasion, to make the difference between two homonyms. Such as: messe (the mass) and mêsse (a master).