Player's Handbook

Comprehend Languages

A 1st-level wizard spell.

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At a glance

Level1
SchoolAlteration
RangeTouch
ComponentsV / S / M
Duration5 rds./level
Casting time1 rd.
Area of effect1 speaking
Saving throwNone
ReversibleYes
SourcePHB p. 172

Description

When this spell is cast, the wizard is able to understand the spoken words of a creature or read an otherwise incomprehensible written message (such as writing in another language). In either case, the wizard must touch the creature or the writing. Note that the to read does not necessarily impart understanding of the material, nor does the spell enable the caster to speak or write an unknown language. Written material can be read at the rate of one page or equivalent per . Magical writing cannot be read, other than to know it is magical, but the spell is often useful when deciphering treasure maps. This spell can be foiled by certain warding magic (the 3rd- secret page and illusionary script spells), and it does not reveal messages concealed in otherwise normal text. The of this spell are a pinch of soot and a few grains of salt. The of this spell, confuse languages, cancels a comprehend languages spell or renders a writing or a creature’s speech incomprehensible, for the same duration as above.

Flavour

Unfamiliar script and speech suddenly resolve into sense, as if the caster had always known the tongue.