This simple question can open up a lot to converse about. If the person knows another language, then you can ask them questions about how to say certain things in that language. Also, you might ask them if it was difficult to learn or if it’s their mother tongue. If the person only knows one language, you can ask them if there is a language they would love to learn. This conversation starter is nice because it works so well both ways.
Q: What languages do you speak?
A: I speak English, French, and Cantonese. My French is only basic conversational and my Cantonese is intermediate. However, I sometimes look back and wished I didn’t forget most of the things I learned about these languages in school.
What language do you speak at home?