Cache & Junk

How to Delete Language Files on Mac

June 7, 2026·2 min read

What Are Language Files on Mac?

Most Mac apps include localization files for dozens of languages. If an app supports 30 languages but you only use English, 29 sets of language files are sitting on your drive unused. These language files mac stores inside each app can collectively add up to several hundred megabytes or even a few gigabytes.

Language files are stored inside each app's package contents in folders with .lproj extensions.

How to Find Language Files

Right-click any app in your Applications folder and select **Show Package Contents**. Navigate to `Contents/Resources`. You'll see folders named like `en.lproj`, `fr.lproj`, `de.lproj`, and so on. Each folder contains translated strings and interface elements for that language.

You can check the combined size of all language folders to see how much space they take in each app. Larger apps like Microsoft Office and Adobe products have the biggest language file collections.

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Should You Delete Them?

Removing unused language files is a valid disk cleanup mac strategy, but it comes with a tradeoff. Manually deleting .lproj folders can potentially break app code signatures, which may prevent the app from launching or receiving updates. macOS security features like Gatekeeper verify app signatures.

For most users, the risk outweighs the space savings. A few hundred megabytes is modest compared to cleaning caches or removing unused apps.

Safer Alternatives

Instead of manually removing language files, focus on higher-impact cleanup tasks. Clearing app caches typically frees more space with zero risk. Removing unused apps and their leftovers is another better use of your time.

If disk cleanup mac is your goal and you're tight on space, target large caches, old downloads, and unused apps before considering language file removal. These safer methods usually free 5-20 GB compared to the 200-500 MB you'd gain from language files.

When Language File Removal Makes Sense

The only scenario where removing language files makes sense is on Macs with extremely limited storage (128 GB) where every megabyte matters. In that case, use a reputable tool that handles the process properly rather than manually deleting .lproj folders.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much space do language files take on Mac?

Across all apps, unused language files typically total 200-500 MB. Large apps like Office suites have the most.

Is it safe to delete .lproj folders manually?

It can break app code signatures and prevent updates. It's generally safer to leave them alone or use a dedicated tool.

Will deleting language files affect my system language?

Only if you accidentally delete your primary language files. As long as you keep your language's .lproj folders, other apps and macOS will work normally.