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3.1.2 Language of Parts (Level AA)

Decorative shape at the bottom of the section

If the language of a page or parts of a page is different from the default language of the website, the change needs to be indicated in the HTML code.

What you need to know

  • If there is a language switch for a page, linked page, or paragraph, the language for the switch needs to be set in the HTML code.
  • Some adopted words can be incorporated into content without calling for a language markup, for example, using the word “siesta” to refer to a nap in an English blog.

What you need to do

  • Use HTML markup to indicate a language change when you switch to words or phrases that are meant to be read in another language.
  • For any links to alternative versions of the website/page in another language, use the HTML markup to indicate a language change.

Reference

Read the full explanation of success criterion 3.1.2 on W3.org.

Related Resource

Check out “Examples of Success Criterion 3.1.2” on W3C’s Web Accessibility Initiative for more information about this success criterion.