One of the features of the functioning of the English language is its use as a national, state and official literary language not just one, but many nations. Researchers now estimate that the number of English speakers ranges between 1.2 and 1.5 billion. These numbers include those for whom English is native (native language), second (ESL) and foreign language (EFL).
Since the 60s of the XX century. the spread of the English language has become very widespread.
Some countries initially used it as a means of interethnic communication, then the language gradually changed and became the native language of the population. Thus, the British version of the English language laid the foundation for the American version, and then the Australian and South African ones. In the XX century. developed Nigerian, Indian, Singaporean varieties and numerous new varieties of English (New Englishes).
English is widely spoken in the world, wider than French, German, Spanish, Russian and Arabic are used as a means of international communication. English is the most widely spoken language on earth. It is used as a native, second and foreign language.
English occupies a special place in seventy-five countries of the world. In nineteen countries, it is the state language.
English is taught as a foreign language in over 100 countries, including China, Russia, Germany, Spain, Egypt and Brazil. In most countries, it is taught at school as the main foreign language displacing other foreign languages.
It would be wrong to think that a certain "international" language is a model of perfection because of its undeniable functional properties, clarity of presentation, and rich literary heritage. Similar judgments are sometimes made in relation to the English language. Undoubtedly, the simplicity of the language greatly contributes to its advancement, but in no way is the basis of this process.
The structure of the English language is somewhat simpler than the structure of some other world languages. Throughout the history of its development, it borrowed widely from other languages with which it was in contact.
English is one of the official languages of the United Nations, UNESCO, the World Health Organization (WHO), the official and working language of many international meetings of organizations such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the European Council, NATO. English is the only official language of the Organization of Petroleum Expert Countries, the only working language of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). Today there is a radical change in the linguistic situation in the world. Never in the past have so many countries and peoples experienced such a need to communicate with each other. Never before have so many people had the opportunity to travel around the world. Never before has such a volume of interpretation and translation been required, and there has never been such a need for the broader development of bilingualism.
The spread of the English language in modern world reflected in the sociolinguistic theory of "three concentric rings" developed by the American linguist Braj Kachru. He presented the results of this process in the form of three circles, located one inside the other: 1) the inner circle corresponds to English as a mother tongue; 2) the outer, middle circle implies proficiency in English as a second language in countries where it received the status of an official language; 3) an expanding, outer circle includes countries where English plays the role of the main studied in educational institutions foreign language. The number of these countries is steadily increasing.
The boundaries between these circles, especially between the outer, middle and expanding, outer, are very mobile and unstable. According to the suggestion of linguists, in the near future the largest number of users of the English language will be in the middle circle, although at present the number of people representing it is the smallest.
The role of the English language in the modern world is invaluable. It is considered the most commonly spoken language. More than 450 million people consider him to be their home. Another 600-650 million citizens use English as an additional language for communication. It is considered to be in demand in many countries of the world. Knowledge of the vocabulary and grammar of this language is essential in order to study abroad. Not to do without him and those wishing to find a prestigious and highly paid job. In our article you can familiarize yourself with all the features of the English language, as well as find out why it is so in demand.
The history of the emergence and development of a foreign language
To understand the role of the English language in the modern world, first of all, it is necessary to know the history of its creation. The creator of the most popular and sought-after Oxford Dictionary identified 5 main events that influenced the formation of the language.
It's not a secret for anyone that it is almost impossible to find out exactly how the language was formed. It is known that Germanic invaders came and settled in Britain in the 5th century AD. They spoke in Germanic. Specialists have little information about this period. This is due to the fact that no written archives and documents of that time have been found. The formation of dialects is confirmed by sources of the 7-9 centuries. They all refer to the language that Alfred the Great called English in the 9th century.
Some experts believe that the development of the English language was influenced by Celtic. From the middle of the 9th century, Norwegian invaders settled in Great Britain. It is believed that the speech of the Scandinavians strongly influenced the development of the English language.
In the centuries following the Norman Conquest, significant changes took place in the English language. The inflectional system formed during that period is still used today. According to her, the generic endings of words characteristic of grammar are almost never used in English. The changes also affected the vocabulary. Borrowings from other languages are known, which over time began to appear in written speech.
In the late medieval and modern periods, stable processes of standardization of the English language took place. Written and spoken language continued to change. The so-called great vowel movement took place.
Since the early seventeenth century, the influence of the English language has been felt throughout the world. Over time, people from different countries began to use it.
The role of English in the modern world. Work and travel
The importance of the English language in the modern world at the moment is quite large. Quite recently, it was a foreign language for us, and today it is international. In all countries of the world, the study of English is of great importance. Almost everyone wants to learn it at least at an elementary level. Children are starting to learn today given language also in preschool age.
Many do not understand whether English is needed in the modern world. However, it is no secret to anyone that today he plays an important role in getting a job. People who want to find a prestigious and highly paid position must have a good knowledge of English. This is due to the fact that large firms often cooperate with foreign partners. Today, English is the only one. They need to be proficient enough in order to fully negotiate and conclude transactions with foreign partners.
Traveling is possible only if you know and understand the foreign language. It's no secret that today almost everyone wants to go on vacation abroad. Thanks to the knowledge of English, you can easily communicate with people not only in English-speaking countries. Anywhere in the world there is a certain percentage of the population who can understand foreign speech. English is also well spoken by people who work with tourists. In the event that you know a foreign speech, you can always easily ask for help in a foreign country. That is why you will feel confident abroad.
The role of English in education
The role of the English language in the modern world is obvious to students who want to get a decent education. His knowledge allows him to study at absolutely any university. The obtained educational document is quoted in all countries. It is no secret that having, for example, a diploma, a graduate can get a prestigious job anywhere in the world.
Almost any large library has books in English. Detectives, novels, poems and other works can be read in the original, knowing a foreign language. It is no secret that the translation of books is not always accurate and literal. The originals of technical literature are considered no less valuable. Thanks to the knowledge of English, you can study in more depth the technique or equipment of interest.
The Role of English in the Technology World
The relevance of learning English can also be explained by the rapid development of technology. Every year experts from all over the world create new inventions. They are given names that are most often in English. Surprisingly, the words familiar to us, such as laptop, computer, scanner, mobile and others, came into speech from English.
Thanks to the rapid development of the Internet, representatives of different nations began to closely communicate on the Web. In order to understand each other, they use English.
The role of English in the lives of young people
English plays an important role in the lives of adolescents and young people. Computer games in English are very popular among gamers. It is no secret that many young people spend a considerable amount of their free time using them. As a rule, new foreign games do not have a Russian translation at first. At this point, only knowledge of a foreign language can help a gambling addict. Thanks to this, he will be able to try out the novelty without feeling any discomfort. There are also useful programs in English. Knowledge of a foreign language allows you to easily use not only games, but also applications.
A large number of English words present in youth speech. Experts believe that this is due to stereotypes and ideals that were created in adolescent society. Young people are confident that the standard of living in America is much higher than ours. Using English borrowings in their speech, they in a certain way approach their ideal. The following words can be attributed to Anglicisms:
- shoe;
- boots;
- comp;
- friend;
- face.
The profession of "translator"
Translating from English into Russian is a profession that is becoming more popular and in demand every year. It is often chosen by graduates who know a foreign language well. The profession arose in antiquity. Its formation is associated with the emergence of economic relations between countries. During the collapse of the USSR, the profession was not particularly popular, since the work of such workers was low-paid. Today, a translator from English into Russian is characterized by a high and stable income. As a rule, such specialists work for large and influential companies.
The profession of a translator is great for those people who have:
- predisposition to foreign languages;
- good memory;
- good diction;
- perseverance;
- sociability;
- diplomatic qualities, as well as have a developed ear and are able to imitate.
A qualified specialist is often sent abroad to earn money. He can easily obtain citizenship there, as well as have a stable and high income.
Work for people who speak English
Knowledge of the English language plays an important role in many areas. Many students underestimate its importance. Most often, specialists with knowledge of a foreign language are needed in the field of education and science. The highest level of English proficiency should have students who wish to connect their lives with information technology.
Large companies almost always have jobs for those who speak English. Specialists-translators are required there. Some firms are ready to train promising candidates at their own expense.
Knowledge of English is also essential for secretaries, since in large companies they often contact international partners. Not to do without foreign and tourism workers.
Knowledge of English and salary
Not everyone knows that many employers are willing to pay more to employees who speak English. According to research, candidates with knowledge of a foreign language earn about 10-40% more than their colleagues. It is worth noting that in some companies, only those employees who speak English are hired for the position.
Students with proficiency in English have a huge advantage. Some firms, including large ones, are ready to hire inexperienced specialists and provide them with high wages if they own a foreign one.
Anglicisms in Russian
Today English is an integral part of the development of the Russian language. Borrowings are one of the sources of vocabulary replenishment. They reflect the facts of ethnic, social, cultural and economic contacts between representatives of different linguistic groups. This phenomenon is explained by a number of reasons:
- the need to name new objects and phenomena;
- lack of equivalents in Russian;
- lack of the most accurate name;
- providing a stylistic effect.
The growth of borrowings in the Russian language became noticeable at the end of the last century. This is due to the collapse of the USSR and changes in all spheres of society. Many linguists argue that the phenomenal expansion of Anglicisms is observed in the following areas:
- power and politics;
- economics and business;
- science and technology;
- sport.
The greatest influence of the English language is seen in advertising. Every year more and more companies, goods and shops are referred to in foreign words.
The relevance of the study
The role of the English language in the modern world is obvious. It is the most important communication tool at the international level. A modern man without certain linguistic knowledge cannot use the latest benefits of civilization. All spheres of our life in one way or another require knowledge of the English language.
Learning English is becoming more in demand every year. Any modern person should own it at least at an initial level.
How to learn a foreign language?
Today, English is being taught at preschool age. Almost all parents realize that knowledge of a foreign language is extremely important. That is why they are intensively engaged with their child in this very direction. To teach a student or preschooler, they hire a tutor or send him to special courses.
Recently, many adults also wish to learn English. To achieve this goal, you can use the services of a tutor or sign up for appropriate courses. However, you can learn English on your own. To do this, we recommend using educational literature or special video and audio courses.
Summing up
The English language plays an important role in our life. His knowledge is essential for people of all ages. The English language is associated with all spheres of life. It is indispensable for those who wish to receive a prestigious education or find a high-paying job. According to the information provided in our article, it can be concluded that employees who speak English earn more than those who do not know it. This fact can serve as an excellent incentive for learning foreign vocabulary and grammar.
At all times, the main language in demand was, is and will be English. It is the easiest to learn, since grammar and vocabulary form the basis for its understanding, therefore it is taught in many educational institutions Russia as the main foreign language.
The role of English in the modern world is quite large, since it is the native language of almost 400 million people, and about 650 million people study it in educational institutions as an additional discipline.
Language itself is a whole system of functions, a means of expressing thoughts and communicating with people. Any single whole has its origins, including the history of origin and development. This is what is worth mentioning in the first place.
The origin of the language began in the distant V century, when three Germanic tribes, Angles, Saxons and Jutes, entered the territory of Britain. Since they all spoke similar languages, Old English was later formed. Over the course of several centuries, the Norman invaders have invaded Britain more than once. They brought a lot to the English language. French words... In the XIV century, it was called Middle English. Beginning in the 16th century, a change in vowel sounds began. This process began to take place in connection with the establishment of relations between Britain and different countries the world. Due to this, many different words and phrases entered the lexicon of the language. With the development of typography, the grammar of the English language began to be based on theoretical knowledge. It was in 1604 that the first English dictionary... Further, the language developed through borrowing words from other languages.
Nowadays, English has become the most important language compared to the rest. Since it is an international language, it means that you need to know it at least at an initial level. Today, English is being studied not only at school or university, but also in preschool institutions. It is important to understand that training in this discipline is carried out, first of all, for the development of a person, his personality, so that in the future he can use these skills within the framework of his profession.
In fact, many people do not understand how necessary a foreign language is in the 21st century. Nowadays, it is no secret to anyone that languages play a major role in getting a job. Most professions and positions are prestigious and highly paid, but this happens only in conjunction with knowledge of an additional language, mainly English. Now all large firms and enterprises cooperate not only with Russian partners, but also with foreign ones. Therefore, in order for your deal to be successful in advance, you need to learn to speak the language, even if not perfectly, but the entry level is not enough here either. It is worth constantly working on yourself and developing not only communicative qualities, but also linguistic ones.
Another reason to learn English is the desire to travel the world. Today, in the main foreign resort areas, of course, there are Russian-speaking workers, but if we are talking about free, unplanned travel abroad, then in this case it is still worth learning a foreign language. Knowledge of English makes life much easier for a Russian tourist. Different situations can happen in life: someone is sick, lost, or simply asks for help - in all these cases, without knowing the language, a person will simply disappear. Of course, in the high-tech world, people can use their smartphones and, through a voice translator, explain what they require. But our gadgets are not eternal, and they have the property of being discharged. It is in this case that our knowledge of the English language will be useful to us.
It should be said that a language can be learned just like that for oneself in order to self-development and self-improvement. We live, first of all, for ourselves, which means that we decide for ourselves how it will be better for us. It will be much more pleasant for any person to talk about something with a foreigner himself than to do it through an interpreter. After all, it will be a tremendous experience in learning a foreign language.
In the world of high technologies, one cannot fail to notice the trend of development and creation of various inventions and programs. Most of them are based on foreign software and settings. Whether it is a laptop, tablet, phone, printer, or any program - all of them are initially a foreign product, even having a foreign manual for use, mostly in English. Therefore, every person who wants to be fluent in technology should know English.
The main category of the population who speaks English, albeit not perfectly, is the youth. Usually, this process takes place during the lesson in computer games. Teenagers spend a lot of time at the computer, and since all popular games are world hits, the manual is also English. Consequently, children subconsciously learn a foreign language without knowing it. Movies and music are another way to learn a language. Currently, the main consumer product among young people is foreign films. They are very popular not only among European countries, but also in Russia. Most of them are published in English format. The desire to listen and see something new motivates young people to learn the language in order to understand what is at stake.
Modern world is becoming smaller all the time. Every day distances between different countries seem less. For this reason it "s becoming more and more important to know different languages, especially English.
One billion people speak English today. That "s about 20% of the world" s population. 400 million people speak English as their first language. For the other 600 million people it "s either a second language or a foreign language.
English is the first language in the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Australia and New Zealand. It is one of the official languages in Canada, the Irish Republic and the Republic of South Africa.
As a second language English is spoken in more than 60 countries. It is used by the government, businessmen and universities.
English is the language of politics and diplomacy, science and technology, business and trade, sport and pop music. 80% of all information in the world "s computers is in English. 75% of the world" s letters and faxes are in English. 60% of all international telephone calls are made in English. More than 60% of all scientific journals are written in English.
To know English today is absolutely necessary for every educated person, for every good specialist. Learning a language is not an easy thing. It "s a long and slow process that takes a lot of time and patience. But it" s a must.
English is taught throughout the world and a lot of people speak it quite well. In our country English is very popular: it is studied at schools (sometimes even at nursery schools), colleges and universities.
Everyone will speak English soon - I "m sure of it. We all need to understand each other. To do that we need an international language, and that" s English.
English today
The modern world is getting smaller. Every day the distance between different countries seems to be shorter. For this reason, it is becoming more and more important to know different languages, especially English.
One billion people speak English today. This is about 20% of the world's population. For 400 million people, English is their native language. For the remaining 600 million people, it is either a second language or a foreign language.
English is the first language in the United Kingdom, United States of America, Australia and New Zealand. It is one of the official languages in Canada, the Republic of Ireland and the Republic of South Africa.
As a second language, English is spoken in over 60 countries. It is used by government, entrepreneurs and universities.
English is the language of politics and diplomacy, science and technology, business and commerce, sports and pop music. 80% of all information in the world is in English. 75% of letters and faxes in the world are in English. 60% of all international phone calls are in English. More than 60% of all scientific journals are in English.
Knowing English is absolutely essential today for every educated person, for every good specialist. Learning a language is not easy. It is a long and slow process that takes a lot of time and patience. But this is necessary.
English is taught all over the world and many people speak it very well. In our country, English is very popular: it is studied in schools (sometimes even in kindergartens), colleges and universities.
Everyone will be speaking English very soon - I'm sure of that. We should all understand each other. For this we need an international language, and that is English.