Configure Spell Check Languages in Photoshop

Managing multiple languages within a single Adobe Photoshop document requires assigning language-specific dictionaries directly to text layers or individual text selections. Unlike programs with a single, document-wide spell-check setting, Photoshop utilizes the Character panel to dictate spell-checking and hyphenation rules on a granular level. This guide details how to assign dictionaries to your multi-lingual text and run the spell-checker effectively across your project.

1. Open the Character Panel

Photoshop assigns spell-check languages on an asset level through typography properties. To access these settings:

  • Navigate to the top menu bar and select Window.
  • Click Character to open the Character panel.

2. Assign Languages to Text

You can assign languages to an entire text layer or to specific words within a multi-lingual block of text.

  • For an entire layer: Select the target text layer in the Layers panel.
  • For mixed text in a single layer: Activate the Horizontal Type Tool (T), highlight the specific word, sentence, or paragraph written in a different language.
  • In the Character panel, locate the Language drop-down menu at the very bottom.
  • Select the appropriate language and regional variant (for example, English: USA, French, German: 1996 Reform, or Spanish).

Photoshop will now associate that selected text with the chosen language's linguistic library and hyphenation dictionary.

3. Run the Spell Checker

Once your text layers have their respective languages assigned, Photoshop automatically detects which dictionary to apply during the spell-checking process.

  1. Go to Edit in the top menu.
  2. Select Check Spelling....
  3. When Photoshop encounters an unrecognized word, it checks it against the dictionary assigned to that specific text segment. If a misspelling is found, suggestions will match the assigned language.
  4. Choose Change, Ignore, or Add as needed, and Photoshop will automatically transition from one language dictionary to another as it moves through multi-lingual layers.

Key Considerations for Multi-Lingual Workflows

  • Character Styles: For large projects with frequent language switching, create distinct Character Styles (Window > Character Styles) for each language. This allows you to apply fonts, sizes, and dictionary settings with a single click.
  • Middle Eastern and East Asian Languages: If working with languages such as Arabic, Hebrew, Japanese, or Chinese, ensure your text engine is set correctly via Preferences > Type to enable correct text shaping, direction, and linguistic features alongside spell checking.