Is French still commonly spoken in Vietnam?

The influence of the French language in Vietnam has declined significantly since the end of French colonial rule in the 1950s. While French was once widely used in education, government, and business, its use has gradually diminished over time.

Today, Vietnamese is the official language of Vietnam and is spoken by the vast majority of the population. English has become the primary foreign language taught in schools and is increasingly used in business and international communication. French is still spoken by some older generations, particularly those who received their education during the colonial period, but its usage is relatively limited compared to the past.

In terms of official government functions and legal proceedings, Vietnamese is predominantly used. English is also gaining prominence as a language for international diplomacy and cross-border trade. While there are still traces of French influence in certain areas, such as certain legal terms or the names of some streets or buildings, the prevalence of French in Vietnam has significantly diminished.