10 Questions
What is the origin of the name 'English'?
It is derived from the name of the Angles, an ancient Germanic tribe
What percentage of total Germanic language branch speakers does English account for?
At least 70%
Where did Old English emerge from?
A group of West Germanic dialects spoken by the Anglo-Saxons
Which language contributed grammar and core vocabulary to Late Old English?
Old Norse
In how many sovereign states is English either the official language or one of the official languages?
59
Which word class is the largest in English?
Nouns
What has Modern English largely abandoned from Indo-European?
Inflectional case system
In what ways is grammatical function indicated for nouns, adjectives, and articles in English?
By word order and prepositions
Which form of speech and writing is described as present-day Standard English?
A form used in public discourse over a range of registers
What has Modern English retained more strongly than any other word class?
'Saxon genitive or English possessive' (-'s)
Test your knowledge about the origins and significance of the English language, including its historical roots, global prominence, and widespread use as a second language.
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