English

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English is a West Germanic language that was first spoken in early medieval England and is now a global lingua franca. It is an official language of almost 60 sovereign states, the most commonly spoken language in the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, Ireland, and New Zealand. It is widely learned as a second language and is an official language of the United Nations, of the European Union, and of many other world and regional international organisations.

History

English originated from the fusion of languages and dialects, now collectively termed Old English, which were brought to the east coast of Great Britain by Anglo-Saxons in the 5th century. The word "English" is derived from the name of the Angles, one of the Germanic tribes that migrated to the area of Great Britain that later took their name, England. Both names derive from Anglia, a peninsula on the Baltic Sea. Language was also influenced by the introduction of the Norman language following the Norman conquest of England in 1066, which resulted in a significant infusion of Norman French vocabulary.

Characteristics

English is distinguished by its relatively wide use of compound verbs, its rich vocabulary, and its flexible syntax. It is a stress-timed language, which means that stress patterns can help distinguish the meanings of words or sentences that have similar words. English grammar, while relatively simple in terms of inflection, relies heavily on auxiliary verbs and word order for the expression of complex tenses, aspect and mood, as well as passive constructions, interrogatives and some negation.

Dialects and regional varieties

The expansion of the British Empire established the English language in the Americas, Africa, India, Australia, and elsewhere. This led to the development of many distinct varieties of English around the world. Today, the major varieties of English include American English, British English, Canadian English, Australian English, New Zealand English, Indian English, South African English, and others.

Global influence

English is one of the leading languages in international business, diplomacy, science, technology, aviation, entertainment, radio, and diplomacy. Its influence has also led to its use as a lingua franca in many regions and in the creation of pidgin English and creole languages in various parts of the world.

In education and academia

English is the primary language of instruction in many universities worldwide and is a key language for academic publishing, particularly in the sciences and humanities. It is also the most commonly taught second language in the world.

See also

• History of the English language
• English-speaking world
• List of countries where English is an official language
• List of dialects of English