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Google Sheets tutorials›Function guide›DETECTLANGUAGE function

Google Sheets · Verified tutorial

DETECTLANGUAGE function in Google Sheets

In B2, enter exactly =DETECTLANGUAGE(A2) to identify the language used in A2.

Verified by JosephineJuly 25, 2026About 60 seconds

Quick answer

In B2, enter exactly =DETECTLANGUAGE(A2) to identify the language used in A2.

Step-by-step

1

Open the practice sheetUse the example data shown below so the result is easy to check.

2

DETECTLANGUAGE functionIn B2, enter exactly =DETECTLANGUAGE(A2) to identify the language used in A2.

3

Check the resultCompare the finished sheet with the expected result and correct the target range if needed.

Shortcut or faster method

Select the target cell, type or paste the formula in the formula bar, then press Enter.

Expected result

B2 contains the DETECTLANGUAGE formula and displays fr.

Common mistake

Applying the change to more rows, columns, or cells than the task specifies.

Troubleshooting

Re-select B2 and repeat the final action. B2 contains the DETECTLANGUAGE formula and displays fr.

Example spreadsheet data

This is the clean fixture used for the verified run.

Text	Language code
Bonjour tout le monde

Video transcript

Open the prepared Practice spreadsheet.
Open the practice sheet. Use the example data shown below so the result is easy to check.
DETECTLANGUAGE function. In B2, enter exactly =DETECTLANGUAGE(A2) to identify the language used in A2.
Check the result. Compare the finished sheet with the expected result and correct the target range if needed.
B2 contains the DETECTLANGUAGE formula and displays fr.