What's sexier, Italian or French?

Italian Takes the Crown as the Sexiest Language

Move over, French—there’s a new linguistic heartthrob in town. According to a 2024 Babbel survey of 6,000 people across six countries, Italian has claimed the title of the sexiest, most romantic, and most passionate language, dethroning French after years of dominance.

Back in 2017, French held the top spot in a similar study with 15,000 participants, celebrated for its melodic intonation and association with love and sophistication. But tastes evolve, and this latest shift suggests a growing fascination with the warmth, rhythm, and emotional expressiveness of Italian.

It’s easy to see why. The rolling rs, the lilting cadence, the way Italians use their hands as much as their voices—it all adds up to a language that feels alive, intimate, and deeply human. Whether it’s a whispered “ti amo” or an animated street-side conversation, Italian carries a certain theatrical charm that resonates on a visceral level.

French, of course, remains a perennial favorite—often described as elegant and refined. But perhaps what people now find sexier isn’t just elegance, but passion. Italian doesn’t just speak to you; it feels like an embrace, a kiss on the cheek, a late-night serenade under a balcony.

The Babbel findings reflect more than linguistic preference—they tap into cultural perception and emotional connection. As one respondent put it, “French is a fine wine; Italian is a summer kiss.”

So while both languages have their allure, it seems the world is leaning into the fiery, soulful romance of Italian. Passione, it appears, trumps je ne sais quoi—at least for now.