Spot On Facts

Question 1

How does English became an important global language

Answer 1

• peaple living in counties colonised by Britain in the 17th to 18th centuries had to use English > now an official language in many parts of the world
• growth of US political and economic power, along with it’s influence in entertainment > has led to English being used in these areas / Britain’s influence in the world of popular music has played a part there too

> led the role of English as a lingua fraca

Question 2

How and where is English used today

Answer 2

• first or official language in many states, including the US and Canada, South Africa, Australia
• lingua fraca in business and communication throughout the world / language used by people aiming to adress a worldwide audience in academic study, research and technology
• used in varieties that differ in accordance with geographical, cultural and socia factors
• as lingua fraca > it needs to be kept simple and clear, avoiding idomatic language incomprehensible to listeners from different parts of the world

> Its simplification = Globish
- Emglish used international is evolving > incorporates words from other languages
often results from technological development and changing fashions and behaviour