16 Questions
What is the origin of the name of the English language?
From the Angles, one of the ancient Germanic peoples
Where does English rank in terms of native language speakers?
Third-most spoken native language
In how many sovereign states is English either the official language or one of the official languages?
59
What percentage of total speakers does English account for in the Germanic language branch?
At least 70%
Which international organization lists English as a co-official language?
United Nations
What emerged from a group of West Germanic dialects spoken by the Anglo-Saxons?
Old English
What language group does English belong to?
Indo-European languages
Which language has the closest living relatives to English?
Frisian
Which language has significantly influenced the development of English?
Dutch
Which language group does English share strong affinities with?
North Sea Germanic languages
What is the classification of English within the Germanic languages?
Ingvaeonic languages
What theory suggests that English can be considered a mixed language or a creole?
The Middle English creole hypothesis
Which language has left a profound mark on English?
Norman French
Which language is most closely related to English according to the text?
Low Saxon and Frisian
What language group does English exist on a dialect continuum with according to the text?
Scots and Low Saxon
What influenced the development of English and isolated it from the continental Germanic languages according to the text?
The invasions of the British Isles by other peoples and languages
Learn about the history and significance of the English language, from its origins with the Anglo-Saxons to its current status as the most widely spoken second language. Explore its impact on global communication and culture.
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