How to Change System Language on Mac

Changing the system language on your Mac can enhance your user experience, especially if you’re more comfortable in a different language. In this article, we will guide you step-by-step on how to change language on Mac.

Why Would You Want to Change the Language on Your Mac?

There can be several reasons for wanting to change the language on your Mac.

• Personal Preference: You may prefer to use your device in your native language.

• Learning: You might want to practice a new language.

• Accessibility: If someone in your household speaks a different language, it can help them use the device comfortably.

Whatever your reason, changing the system language is straightforward.

How Do You Change the System Language on Mac?

Changing the language on your Mac involves updating the Language & Region settings.

Here’s how you can do it:

1. Open System Preferences:
   – Click on the Apple logo in the top-left corner of your screen.
   – Select System Preferences from the dropdown menu.

2. Select Language & Region:
   – In the System Preferences window, find and click on Language & Region.

3. Add a New Language:
   – In the Language & Region settings, click on the + button below the list of Preferred Languages.
   – A list of available languages will appear. Scroll or search for the language you wish to add.
   – Select your desired language and click Add.

4. Set the New Language as Primary:
   – After adding the language, it will appear in the Preferred Languages list.
   – Drag your new language to the top of the list to set it as the primary language.

5. Restart Your Mac:
   – A prompt will appear asking you to restart your Mac for the changes to take effect.
   – Click on Restart.

After your Mac restarts, you will notice the system and many of the apps are now in your chosen language.

What to Do If Your Language Doesn’t Show Up?

If you’re wondering how to change language on Mac but can’t find the language you want, here’s what you can do:

• Check for macOS Updates: Some languages may not be available if your macOS version is outdated. To check for updates:
  1. Go to the Apple menu.
  2. Select System Preferences.
  3. Click on Software Update.
  4. Install any available updates.

• Download Language Packs: Some languages might require additional files. If this is the case, follow the prompts in the Language & Region settings to download them.

How to Change Language for Specific Applications?

In some cases, you may want to use a different language for specific applications while keeping your Mac’s general language set to another. Here’s how you can do that:

1. Locate the Application:
   – Go to your Applications folder.

2. Select the App:
   – Right-click (or Ctrl-click) on the application for which you want to change the language.

3. Get Info:
   – Select Get Info from the context menu.

4. Set Language:
   – In the Get Info window, look for the Language section.
   – Select your desired language from the dropdown menu if available.

5. Close the Info Window:
   – Close the window, and the next time you launch the application, it should open in the specified language.

Can You Change the Language on Mac for Siri and Dictation?

Yes! Siri and Dictation on your Mac can also be set to respond in a different language.

To change Siri’s language:

• Go to System Preferences.
• Click on Siri.
• In the Language dropdown menu, select your desired language.

For Dictation:

• Open System Preferences.
• Select Keyboard.
• Click the Dictation tab.
• Choose your preferred language from the Language dropdown.

What About Other Language Settings?

On your Mac, there are also other settings that can enhance your experience with different languages. Make sure to check the following:

• Keyboard Preferences:
• Go to System Preferences > Keyboard.

• Click on the Input Sources tab to add or change keyboard layouts corresponding to your selected language.

• Date, Time, and Number Formats:

• These settings can be customized based on regional preferences. You can modify them in the Language & Region settings by clicking on the Advanced button.

How to Switch Between Languages Quickly?

If you frequently switch between languages, you can set up keyboard shortcuts for easy access:

1. Open Keyboard Preferences:
   – Go to System Preferences > Keyboard > Shortcuts.

2. Select Input Sources:
   – In the sidebar, click on Input Sources.

3. Enable and Customize Shortcuts:
   – Check the box next to Select the previous input source.
   – You can customize the shortcut if needed.

This lets you toggle between languages effortlessly, ensuring a smoother workflow.

Need More Help on Changing the Language on Mac?

If you encounter issues while trying to change the language or need further assistance, consider visiting Apple’s support page or community forums.

They provide extensive resources that may help clarify your questions regarding how to change language on Mac.

Conclusion

Changing the system language on your Mac is a relatively easy task that can make your user experience much more enjoyable.

With the ability to set the primary language, customize app languages, and adjust keyboard inputs, you have full control over your Mac’s linguistic settings.

Now that you know how to change language on Mac, go ahead and customize your experience according to your preferences!

Not only will it enhance your comfort while using your device, but it can also serve as a valuable tool for multi-lingual individuals.

Happy customizing!