By 2001, what became the second most common language spoken in Canada outside Quebec?

The second most common language spoken in Canada outside Quebec by 2001 was Chinese. This reflects broader trends of immigration to Canada, particularly from Chinese-speaking countries, which led to a significant presence of Chinese communities in various cities across the country. Chinese encompasses a variety of dialects, with Mandarin and Cantonese being among the most widely spoken. The increase in the Chinese-speaking population is a reflection of Canada’s multicultural society and its welcoming stance toward immigrants from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Additionally, the presence of Chinese language services, cultural associations, and educational programs further contributed to the establishment and growth of the Chinese language in Canadian urban centers. This trend emphasizes the linguistic diversity present in the population and how immigration patterns shape the language landscape of a country.