How many countries altogether can speak french?

It's tricky to give a definitive number for "countries that speak French" because it depends on what you mean by "speak".

Here's a breakdown:

* Officially French-speaking countries: There are 29 countries where French is an official language.

* Countries with significant French-speaking populations: There are many more countries where French is widely spoken, even if it's not officially recognized. This could include countries with French colonial history, like many in Africa, or areas with large French-speaking immigrant populations.

* Regional variations: Within countries, French may be the dominant language in some regions, while other languages are more prominent in others.

Therefore, it's inaccurate to give a single number. It's better to understand the nuanced picture of French's use across the globe.