Page 117 - E-Synergy 2019-20
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Importance of English
English as a Universal language' is an oft discussed and disputed subject. While many brood over the
intricacies and difficulties of the language many vouch by its naturality and richness. When some point out
a number of flaws of English like it is not a phonetic language, complex with three dialects each with sub
dialects, difficulties in dealing with the variants and varieties of English language (British English, American
English, Canadian English, Australian English etc) the other side counters citing the simplicity and beauty,
enormously vast and enriched vocabulary and the treasure house of English language /literature. (Who
could ever discard the legacy of 'the Bard of Avon' just because he wrote in English?). Well, even with all
the contradicting discussions on the merits of English language , the fact remains that English is already an
official language in 70 countries and of course the second most spoken language worldwide. The old Adage
of "the sun never sets on the British Empire" is seamlessly transferred to "the sun never sets on the
English language". It is the business and Finance language and it is the unofficial language of internet, be it
Facebook, Instagram or WhatsApp. Official data shows that English speaking nations contribute 40% of
world GNP. Be it the versatility of the language or just as a status symbol English is here to stay.
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