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Questions and Answers
What does R.K. Narayan propose for Indian English?
Why does the author like American English?
What does the author mean by 'toasting' of English in America?
Why does the author oppose the 'mingling' of English?
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What is the significance of the phrase 'the American National Expression'?
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What is the tone of the essay 'Toasted English'?
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What is an example of American English leaving no room for speculation?
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What is the process of changing English referred to as?
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What does the author want Indian English to be free from?
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What is the significance of the word 'check' in American English?
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What does R.K. Narayan suggest should be the basis for Indian English?
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What is the author's attitude towards the 'toasting' of English in America?
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How do Londoners employ English?
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What is unnecessary in American English?
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What is the significance of the phrase 'Swadeshi Stamp'?
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What is the author's main argument about English?
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What is the significance of the phrase 'Newly Planted, Don't Walk'?
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What is the difference between American and British usage of the word 'check'?
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What is a 'check girl'?
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What is the significance of the words 'ok', 'yeah', and 'yes' in American English?
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What is the main focus of the research paper 'Toasted English'?
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What did Americans do to eliminate British influence?
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What is the author's suggestion for Indian English?
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Why did Americans start using passive voices?
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What is the author's expectation for Indian English in the future?
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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.
