official language
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official language
The language officially used by authorities, courts, and in the administration of a state or organization.
In der Schweiz gibt es vier offizielle Amtssprachen.
Switzerland has four official languages.
This word is made up of 'Amt' (office/authority, official body), the linking '-s-', and 'Sprache' (language). So it is literally the 'language of the office/authority'.
Die Amtssprache in Österreich ist Deutsch.
The official language in Austria is German.
The word is often used in the combination 'offizielle Amtssprache' (official official language). Typical verbs are 'als Amtssprache festlegen' (to designate as an official language) or 'anerkennen' (to recognize).
Englisch wurde als zweite Amtssprache des Unternehmens festgelegt.
English was designated as the company's second official language.
'Amtssprache' (official language) is a formal term from the legal and administrative sphere. It is used when referring to official communication by states or organizations.
Alle offiziellen Dokumente müssen in der Amtssprache verfasst sein.
All official documents must be written in the official language.
national language
'Amtssprache' and 'Landessprache' can both mean the official language of a country. However, 'Amtssprache' emphasizes use by authorities, courts, and in administration. So it is about which language is officially valid for documents and public offices. 'Landessprache' refers more to the language that is official in a country or region, or that is mainly spoken there. The words are confusable because in some countries they refer to the same language. When it is about forms, laws, or authorities, 'Amtssprache' is more precise. When it is about the country and its everyday language, 'Landessprache' often fits better.
Bei der Behörde müssen die Unterlagen in der Amtssprache eingereicht werden.
At the public office, the documents must be submitted in the official language.
Vor seiner Reise lernt Max ein paar Sätze in der Landessprache.
Before his trip, Max learns a few sentences in the national language.