Overview

Today's world is globalised, which has led to the spread of the English language as a lingua franca. This has resulted in the borrowing from English by the majority of languages. But, why Dutch words such as Yankees, mannequins and Santa Claus exist in English? What have common English words such as husbands, outlaws and kids to do with the Vikings? Why the United Kingdom's royal coat of arms' motto, Dieu et mon droit is in French and not in English?Unfortunately, the influence of these languages has been underestimated. This book examines how Dutch, Viking and French loanwords have entered the English language and why the influence of these languages is underestimated.The borrowings from English are often considered as invasive. Nevertheless, English itself has borrowed from other languages, maintaining its proper character. Hence, it is hoped that this book may contribute to a greater acknowledgement of the influence of other languages on English and undermine the scepticism towards the English language. After all, every language has its importance and significance in this globalised world.The essay Language Contact, Language Policy and Education in South Africa was added to this book as it also deals with language contact. South Africa has eleven official languages. Most public schools adopt South African vernacular languages. The result is that many native South Africans, due to a low proficiency in English, hardly attend higher education. Therefore, should the language of instruction be in English, as the vernacular languages have withheld many South Africans from obtaining higher education?

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