Languages

For characters, their race indicate the languages the character can speak by default, and their background might give them access to one or more additional languages of choice.

When creating a character, choose languages from the Standard Languages table, or choose one that is common in your campaign. With your GM's permission, you can instead choose a language from the Exotic Languages table or a secret language, such as thieves' cant or the tongue of druids.

Some of these languages are actually families of languages with many dialects.

For example, the Primordial language includes the Auran, Aquan, Ignan, and Terran dialects, one for each of the four elemental planes.

Creatures that speak different dialects of the same language can communicate with one another.

Table - Standard Languages

Table - Exotic Languages

Speaking and Understanding Languages

Sometimes a creature can understand a language but can't speak it, and this is noted in its entry.

A "-" indicates that a creature neither speaks nor understands any language.