Expansion of the English Language

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to the expansion of the English language as a global phenomenon.

Mother tongue

The language you have learnt from your parents and grown up with.

Official language

The language used by a state in official documents, education, business, etc.

Lingua Franca

A language used by two people who can't understand each other’s mother tongues.

Creole language

A mix of two languages; English Creole languages often mix English with an African language.

The British Empire

Britain and its colonies around the world, lasting from the 16th century.

Inner Circle

Countries where English is a mother tongue, including the UK, Ireland, the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Outer Circle

Countries where English is an official language and used in government and education, such as India and Nigeria.

Expanding Circle

Countries where English is learned as a second language, like Germany and Japan.

Mass migration

The movement of a large number of people from one place to another, significantly impacting language spread.

Colonization

The act of establishing control over foreign territory and its people, often leading to the spread of language.

Cultural influence

The impact of one culture on another, often seen with American influence spreading English globally.

Pidgin English

A simplified form of English used as a lingua franca between speakers of different native languages.

British colonial rule

The period when Britain controlled many territories, during which English was spread as an official language.

Global language

A language that is widely spoken and understood around the world, such as English.

Positive aspects of English

Easier communication globally, advances in various fields, and benefits for diplomacy.

Negative aspects of English

Risk of cultural homogenization, loss of languages, and increased power dynamics favoring English-speaking cultures.