English is the lingua franca of business, science, technology, literature, media, diplomacy, and politics. It serves as the primary language of communication for billions of people worldwide. But how did this happen, and how will it stay in power? Let’s explore how English has maintained its dominance while other languages have fallen by the wayside—or even died out entirely.
1. English is the Language of Business
There is no doubt that English is the language of business, but how did this come to be?
To begin with, English is an official language in more countries than any other. Spoken by almost half a billion people globally, it has been used in legal documents since America declared independence from Britain in 1776.
Today, major companies like Microsoft, Samsung, Airbus, and Technicolor require foreign professional staff to be proficient in English. Effective communication skills in English enable companies to reach more partners, vendors, and customers worldwide, making mastery of the language essential for professional success.
2. English is the Lingua Franca of the Internet
English is the most widely used language on the internet, social media, and in international business. It is also one of the two official languages at United Nations headquarters in New York City.
The internet was developed primarily in the United States and the United Kingdom, giving English a head start. In 2021, 80% of electronic information was presented in English, and 60.4% of online users and content creators were English speakers. Mastering English grants wider access to online resources, whether for work, study, socialising, content creation, or research.
3. English is the Language of Entertainment and Pop Culture
Understanding English is crucial for keeping up with popular culture. Even if you don’t speak English fluently, it is important to understand it to stay informed about global news, stories, and social media trends. Many people comment in English to ensure broad comprehension.
Millions of books, TV shows, video games, songs, audiobooks, cartoons, films, and magazines are available in English. For instance, Netflix offers 3,352 English films and series, which can be accessed with subtitles. Proficiency in English provides more diverse entertainment choices and opportunities to learn the language.
Being multilingual reduces barriers between cultures, fostering greater understanding within society and families.
4. English is the Language of Science
English is the predominant language of science. Most scientific research is published in English, and nearly all major conferences are conducted in English. This has facilitated communication and collaboration among scientists from different countries.
5. English is the Most Widely Spoken Second Language
English is the most widely spoken second language globally. More people are learning English as a second language than there are native speakers. This has significantly impacted our understanding of language dynamics.
Approximately one billion people speak English as a first or second language. This number does not include those who use it as a third or fourth language. Even if you aren’t fluent, you can likely communicate with others through tools like Google Translate or Skype Translator.
● English will always rule the world, but for different reasons than before.
English remains the lingua franca of business, science, and technology. It is also the primary language of the internet. Proficiency in English is crucial for accessing global information, securing jobs, and keeping up with popular culture and global trends.
