A global Language

The time has come when people can claim the existence of a global society. The very society, for its existence, needs to be applauded in a way understandable to all. There, thus, arises a need for a global language that can connect Africa with America or Asia with Europe. What should the common language be? Which language has a base strong enough to hold the title of an international language?

English has been leading the race as a global language, leaving behind every other language by a huge margin on the basis of the speakers’ numbers. The emergence of English is clearly a process dominated by the political and economic influence of English nationals across the world. This tradition surfaced with the great industrial revolution in the 18th century, which included great voyages to different places for building trade. Also, as this essay is being written, a mind is translating its thoughts in English.

There is no official definition of a “global language”, but essentially it refers to a language that is learnt and spoken internationally. This is characterised by the use of the language in foreign trade and political handlings, enabling people from diverse backgrounds to communicate on a common basis.

The history of global languages has a crucial relation with power. When Latin held sway, the great Roman Empire blossomed as the centre of civilisation. The spiritual power of the Roman Catholic Church also contributed in Latin’s rise as an international language. A particular language rises as the number of native speakers rise in the society, and by extension, falls when the speakers pass out.

The influence of any language can be seen by the number of countries using it as their mother tongue, number of countries adopting it as their official language, and also the number of countries teaching it as a foreign language. Apparently, English has been leading in every category.

Everyone talks about how English is the global language, and it means much more than the British Beatles singing on the radio. English has become the global language because it has become a vital part of the international society. English dominates the world of movies and music, of drama and debate.

English is believed to have relatively easier grammar and sentence structure. In a global society we need to communicate, and it’s not feasible to have a translator translating the words of love to your Venezuelan sweetheart! It would surely be convenient if both have a language in common which is easier to learn.

Many countries have been spending a lot of money for the development of English speakers in their countries. Why only English? It’s easy, they say.

English has indeed become an integral part of the global village. Whether you are a doctor, an engineer, a media person, an actor, a singer, a physicist or anybody else, you need English. Global English remains as an existent evidence of functional reality. Everywhere you look: direction boards, advertisement banners everything has the English component in them. You go on a holiday to Spain or Africa, English will suffice. What is the future of English as a global language? That only time can tell!