Screen readers depend on the defined language to pronounce text correctly and use the right voice profile. Without a set language, the software may misread words or switch between voices inconsistently, creating confusion for readers. 

Setting the language also helps Word’s built-in spelling, grammar, and accessibility tools work correctly. 

1. Open your Word document.
2. Press Ctrl + A (Windows) or Command + A (Mac) to select all text.
3. Go to the Review tab.
4. Select Language > Set Proofing Language.
5. In the pop-up box, choose your document’s language (for example, English (United States)).
6. Click OK to apply. 

If your document includes text written in another language—such as a quote, title, or short section—you can assign a secondary language to that specific text. 

Watch 2:36-3:21  to see how to apply 2 languages in a document.  

1. Highlight the text written in the other language.
2. Go to the Review tab.
3. Select Language > Set Proofing Language.
4. Choose the correct language for that text (for example, Spanish (Mexico) or French (France)).
5. Click OK to apply.
6. Repeat for any other multilingual sections. 

Tip: Screen readers automatically switch pronunciation when a section has a defined language, improving the listening experience for readers. 

1. Run the Accessibility Checker under the Review tab to confirm no contrast issues remain.
2. Save your document.
3. If exporting to PDF, use our Saving Word and PowerPoint (PPT) Files to PDF Guide for a more accessible PDF export. 

For more, review these additional resources: 

• Word Accessibility Part 1: Creating Accessible Word Documents (video)
• Word Accessibility Part 2: Fixing Inaccessible Word Documents (video)
• Creating Accessible Word Documents

For support, email [email protected].