5 Questions
What is the origin of the English language?
The English language originated from the early medieval England, with its speakers called Anglophones, after the Angles, one of the ancient Germanic peoples that migrated to Great Britain.
Which languages have more native speakers than English?
Mandarin Chinese and Spanish have more native speakers than English, making English the third-most spoken native language in the world.
How many sovereign states have English as an official language?
English is either the official language or one of the official languages in 59 sovereign states.
Name some sectors where English has become the de facto language.
English has become the de facto language of diplomacy, science, international trade, tourism, aviation, entertainment, and the internet.
What contributed to the development of Late Old English?
Late Old English borrowed some grammar and core vocabulary from Old Norse, a North Germanic language, which contributed to its development.
Study Notes
Origin of the English Language
- English originated from the fusion of various Germanic dialects, specifically Old English, spoken by Anglo-Saxons in England from the 5th to 11th centuries.
Languages with More Native Speakers
- Mandarin Chinese, Spanish, Arabic, Hindi, and Bengali have more native speakers than English.
English as an Official Language
- English is an official language in over 60 sovereign states, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
English as a De Facto Language
- English has become the de facto language in:
- International business and commerce
- Science and technology, including computer programming and the internet
- Global aviation and maritime communication
- International education and academia
- Entertainment, including movies and music
Development of Late Old English
- The Viking invasions and settlements in England in the 9th and 10th centuries contributed to the development of Late Old English, which was spoken from the 9th to 11th centuries.
Test your knowledge of the English language with this quiz! From grammar and vocabulary to famous authors and literary works, challenge yourself with questions about one of the most widely spoken languages in the world.
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