Understanding R.K. Narayan's Essay 'Toasted English'
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Questions and Answers

What does R.K. Narayan propose for Indian English?

  • Using only formal language
  • Adopting American English
  • Mingling of English with another language
  • Giving Indian English its own distinctive stamp (correct)

    • Why does the author like American English?

  • It is more straightforward, conversational, and informal (correct)
  • It uses only passive voice
  • It is more complex and formal
  • It is identical to British English

    • What does the author mean by 'toasting' of English in America?

  • Making English more difficult to understand
  • Making English more formal and complex
  • Adapting English to suit American preferences and way of life (correct)
  • Getting rid of English grammar rules

    • Why does the author oppose the 'mingling' of English?

    <p>Because it loses the integrity of grammar and rules</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the phrase 'the American National Expression'?

    <p>It refers to distinct keywords used by Americans anywhere in the world</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the tone of the essay 'Toasted English'?

    <p>Comical yet serious</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an example of American English leaving no room for speculation?

    <p>A signboard saying 'Absolutely Little Parking'</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the process of changing English referred to as?

    <p>Toasting</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the author want Indian English to be free from?

    <p>The oppressive tyranny of the passive voice</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the word 'check' in American English?

    <p>It is a national expression in the United States</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does R.K. Narayan suggest should be the basis for Indian English?

    <p>Indian requirements and circumstances</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the author's attitude towards the 'toasting' of English in America?

    <p>He disapproves of it</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do Londoners employ English?

    <p>Politely</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is unnecessary in American English?

    <p>Using the word 'yes' with 'Sir' or 'Darling'</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the phrase 'Swadeshi Stamp'?

    <p>It refers to giving Indian English its own distinctive stamp</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the author's main argument about English?

    <p>It has become a commodity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the phrase 'Newly Planted, Don't Walk'?

    <p>It is a replacement for 'Trespassing Prohibited'</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the difference between American and British usage of the word 'check'?

    <p>Americans use it in multiple contexts, while British use it only in definitions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a 'check girl'?

    <p>A coat checker</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the words 'ok', 'yeah', and 'yes' in American English?

    <p>They are complete sentences that don't require any additional suffixes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main focus of the research paper 'Toasted English'?

    <p>The use of English in different content</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did Americans do to eliminate British influence?

    <p>Eliminated everything related to the British</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the author's suggestion for Indian English?

    <p>It should have its own unique identity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why did Americans start using passive voices?

    <p>To change their language and break free from British influence</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the author's expectation for Indian English in the future?

    <p>It will develop its own unique identity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Characteristics of Narayan's Writing

    • Narayan is known for using straightforward language and realistic characters

    Variations in English Language

    • The English language varies from one country to another
    • The essay "Toasted English" explores these variations in a comical yet serious way
    • American and British English have differences in usage and vocabulary
    • Americans adopted English and modified it to suit their preferences and way of life
    • This process of modification is referred to as "toasting" English

    American English

    • Americans use English in an informal manner, avoiding formalism
    • They have developed distinct keywords, such as "check", "anywhere", and "anyhow", which can be misused
    • These words can be used in various contexts and are widely accepted
    • American English is more conversational and straightforward, without the passive voice

    Examples of American English

    • Instead of "Trespassing Prohibited", a notice board can read "Newly Planted, Don't Walk"
    • The word "check" has multiple meanings, such as investigating, inspecting, and verifying
    • A "check girl" is someone who takes care of your coat, umbrella, or other items
    • "Your check" refers to your ticket or token

    Indian English

    • Narayan believes that English should be spoken openly in the streets and become the common man's language in India
    • It should adjust to fit Indian requirements and circumstances
    • He advocates for creating a "Bharat brand" of English, with its own distinctive stamp, or "Swadeshi Stamp"
    • This Indian English should have its own personality and be distinct from current English

    Toasted English by R K Narayan

    • R K Narayan wrote the research paper "Toasted English"
    • The paper focuses on the use of English in different contexts

    American Influence on English

    • Americans were tired of British dominance
    • They actively eliminated British influences from their language
    • One such change was the adoption of passive voices in their language

    Indian English

    • The author suggests Indians should develop their own unique English language
    • This new language should reflect Indian culture and nuances
    • Indians will eventually create their own English dialect

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    Description

    Explore the humorous essay 'Toasted English' by R.K. Narayan, which discusses the variations of the English language across countries, particularly American and British English.

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