TalkLive in 17 languages
Every door below opens TalkLive in a different language - the whole app, from the buttons to the safety screens, including right-to-left Arabic, Persian and Urdu. Pick yours, or simply start: TalkLive already follows your phone's language.
How language works on TalkLive
One distinction matters more than any other: the interface language is not the conversation language. Switching TalkLive to Japanese changes the buttons, not the people. You will still be matched with whoever is searching, and you can talk in any language the two of you share. Country preferences in Filters can tilt the odds - prefer Egypt and you are more likely to meet Arabic speakers - but countries are multilingual, and a country label is an estimate, not a guarantee. The simplest approach is to ask: "Which language is easiest for you?"
Talking across languages
Some of the best conversations on TalkLive happen in a language neither person speaks perfectly. A few habits help. Speak a little more slowly than usual, and use complete, simple sentences rather than slang. Check rather than assume: "Did I explain that well?" is better than ploughing on. Let silences run - the other person may be building a sentence in their head. And use text when a word will not come: in a voice call you can type a word or a name in the chat without interrupting.
If you are using TalkLive to practise, our guides to language exchange and practising English speaking go further. For the story behind each of the seventeen languages - who speaks them, and how to say hello properly - the Journal's feature Seventeen Ways to Say Hello is the long read. And for the places TalkLive hears from most, see the country guides.
The same safety rules apply in every language: keep personal details private, never send money or codes, and use Report or Block whenever you need to. A language barrier is never a reason to put up with pressure. Spotted a translation that could be better? Tell us through Contact, with the page, the current wording, your suggestion and the dialect it is for.
Questions about languages
How do I change TalkLive's language?
TalkLive follows your phone or browser language automatically. To change it, open Settings and choose a language - your choice is remembered on that device. Each localized homepage above also opens the app in its language.
Will I be matched with people who speak my language?
Not automatically. The interface language only changes how TalkLive is shown to you. You can prefer countries in Filters, but countries are multilingual - ask your match which language suits them.
Are right-to-left languages supported?
Yes. Arabic, Persian and Urdu display right to left throughout the app.
Can I suggest a better translation?
Yes, please. Use the Contact page and include the page, the current wording, your suggestion and the dialect or region it is for.