How to change system language on Ubuntu (GNOME)

Modifying the default system language in Ubuntu with GNOME ensures localized menus, messages, and notifications. This customization accommodates diverse linguistic needs and improves accessibility for users working outside an English environment. All system interfaces, including login prompts and application menus, align with the selected locale.

Internally, Ubuntu manages language configurations through dedicated language packs and locale files in /etc/default/locale. These components work together to update text, date formats, and regional settings at the desktop and system levels. New packages are often required to ensure accurate translations across core applications.

Once the relevant locale files and translations are installed, system-wide consistency is achieved in the GNOME environment. The result is a more seamless user experience, allowing administrators and end users to interact with the operating system in a preferred language. Periodic updates to language packs help maintain translation accuracy over time.

1. Open the Settings application.
2. Select the Region & Language option from the left sidebar.
3. Click on the current language or the “+” button under the Language section.
4. Choose your preferred language from the list of available options.
5. Confirm and install the required language pack if prompted.
6. Reorder the language list by dragging the new language to the top to make it default.
7. Restart the computer to finalize and apply system-wide language changes.
8. (Optional) Verify the active locale and confirm the new language is set from terminal.

   $ locale
   LANG=en_US.UTF-8
   LANGUAGE=en_US
   LC_ALL=

   Some applications may require individual language adjustments if they do not automatically inherit the system language.