# HTML lang Global Attribute
The `lang` attribute is an HTML global attribute used to specify the primary language of an element's text content. Defining the language of your document or specific elements is a fundamental practice for web accessibility, search engine optimization (SEO), and internationalization.
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## Definition and Usage
The `lang` attribute declares the language of the element's content and any text contained within its attributes (such as `alt` or `title`).
By declaring the language of your content, you assist:
* **Screen Readers:** Assistive technologies use the `lang` attribute to select the correct pronunciation, accent, and voice synthesis rules.
* **Search Engines:** Search engines use it to index and serve localized search results to users.
* **Browsers:** Web browsers use it to trigger automatic translation prompts, apply language-specific CSS styling (using the `:lang()` pseudo-class), and select appropriate system fonts.
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## Syntax
```html
```
### Attribute Value
| Value | Description |
| :--- | :--- |
| `language_code` | Specifies the language code for the element's content. It must be a valid BCP 47 language tag (e.g., `en` for English, `fr` for French, `zh-CN` for Simplified Chinese). |
> **Note:** For a complete list of language codes, refer to the standard (https://www.w3.org/International/questions/qa-html-language-declarations).
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## Code Examples
### Example 1: Defining the Document Language
It is best practice to always declare the primary language of the entire web page on the root `` tag.
```html
Document Language Example
This entire page is written in English.
```
### Example 2: Declaring Language for Specific Elements
If a portion of your web page uses a different language than the rest of the document, you can override the global language by applying the `lang` attribute to a specific element.
```html
Multi-language Example
The English word for "apple" in French is:
une pomme
```
---
## Browser Support
The `lang` attribute is a standard global attribute and is fully supported by all modern web browsers:
* Google Chrome
* Mozilla Firefox
* Microsoft Edge / Internet Explorer
* Safari
* Opera
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## HTML 4.01 vs. HTML5 Differences
* **HTML5:** The `lang` attribute is a true global attribute and can be used on **any** valid HTML element.
* **HTML 4.01:** The `lang` attribute could not be used on the following elements: ``, `
`, ``, `
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