Definition
English as a language of communication for people who do not share the same first language
Why english as lingua franca
Result of British or/and American imperialism
During 17th & 18th century-> britains forces their language onto inhabitants of colonized countries
People who spoke cit had power -> language became more important
Globalization made a language everyone can speak needed -> english already well known
4 stages of development
1 old english/ anglo-saxon (450-1100)
2 middle english (1100-1500)
3 early modern english (1500-1700)
4 modern English (since 1700)
Old english
Result of Germanic tribes conquering England in 5th century
Roman & scandinavian came as well and influenced language
Middle English
Influenced by French -> fremch monarchy replaced English monarchy
English language only seen for poor people
Because of wars the French language became the enemies language -> high society wanted to speak English again
Early Modern English
Printing of books developed -> Standard Englisch evolved
English language was spread
Gain of vocabulary through out Latain words
Modern English
Ongoing development
Globaliyation and social media play important role
Pro arguments
Simple Language -> simplifies everyday life
Pop culture in english
Official & diplomatic language -> makes communication easier
Already official language of many countries
Most powerful nations speak it
Language of science, politics, business etc
Evolved from many different languages
Contra arguments
Need to be involved into UK/US culture to understand jokes etc
Minority languages wipec out -> f.e. India ( parts only speak English)
Could lose qualities as language of culture
Advantages for native speakers
Harder to learn for non-Europeans
Last changed4 months ago