Fix text-to-speech reading in wrong language

Word 2016 and OneNote 2016 desktop

If you're having trouble with Read Aloud (in Word desktop) or Immersive Reader (in OneNote 2016 or 2013) reading your text in the wrong language, first check this list to see whether your language has text-to-speech capabilities. If your language doesn't have text-to-speech capabilities, it will not support voice and reading features.

To make sure Word and OneNote are translating to the correct language, refresh your language settings:

Word for the desktop

1. Close Immersive Reader or Read Aloud.

2. Highlight the text you want to read.

3. Select Review > Language > Language > Set Proofing Language.

4. Choose your language from the menu.

5. Launch Immersive Reader or Read Aloud again.

OneNote for the web

1. Close Immersive Reader or Read Aloud.

2. Highlight the text you want to read.

3. Select the dropdown arrow next to Spelling  .

4. Select Set proofing language.

5. Choose your language from the list and select OK.

6. Launch Immersive Reader or Read Aloud again.

Word for the web

1. Close Immersive Reader or Read Aloud.

2. Highlight the text you want to read.

3. Select the dropdown arrow next to Editor  .

4. Select Set proofing language.

5. Choose your language from the list and select OK.

Learn more

Download languages and voices for Immersive Reader

Languages supported by Learning Tools

Download a Learning Tools language pack 

Additional resources for educators