Frustrated with an app stuck in a language you don't understand? This guide shows you how to effortlessly change the language of your Mac applications, regardless of whether you're using macOS Ventura, Monterey, or an older version. We'll cover simple steps for both system-wide language adjustments and individual app language overrides, ensuring a personalized and comfortable user experience. Let's get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Access Language & Region Settings
- Open System Settings.
- Click on 'General' in the left-hand side panel.
- Click on 'Language & Region'.
Access Language & Region Settings -
Add Application Language
- Scroll down to 'Applications'.
- Click the '+' icon.
- Choose the specific app you want to change the language for.
- Select the desired language.
Add Application Language - Click 'Add'.
Add Application Language -
Verify Language Change
- Launch the app to confirm the language change (may require downloading language files).
Verify Language Change
Tips
- This method works on various macOS versions, not just Ventura.
- You can find the app using Spotlight search (or Finder).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Selecting the Wrong Language Setting
Reason: Users might accidentally change the system language instead of just the app's language, leading to a complete system language change.
Solution: Carefully check the settings menu to ensure you are adjusting the language specifically for the target application, not the operating system.
2. Ignoring App-Specific Language Options
Reason: Some applications have their own internal language settings within the app's preferences, which override the system's language setting.
Solution: Check the application's preferences or settings menu for language options and adjust them accordingly.
3. Failing to Restart the Application
Reason: After changing the language setting, the application might not reflect the changes immediately.
Solution: Restart the application to apply the new language settings.
FAQs
My Mac's system language is correct, but one app is still in the wrong language. Why?
Many apps have their own language settings independent of your macOS language. You'll usually find these settings within the app's Preferences or Settings menu. Look for options related to 'Language,' 'Locale,' or 'Region'.
I changed my system language, but some apps haven't updated. What should I do?
Sometimes apps need a restart or even a full quit and relaunch to reflect the new system language. If that doesn't work, try checking the app's individual language settings (as mentioned above) to ensure it's not overriding the system language.
Can I have different apps in different languages on my Mac?
Yes! Each app generally maintains its own language setting. You can set your system language to your preferred default, then individually adjust the language for apps that you want in a different language.