Language and globalization: English as a global language

Undoubtedly, the modern world is more globalized than ever before. Many changes were seen in 20^th and 21^st centuries predominantly in global trade, transport, culture, technology, medicine, education etc. This unprecedented change is called ‘globalization’. There is a profound impact on languages also. As far as languages are concerned, there are approximately 150 languages that have gained importance because 95% of mankind speaks these languages today. This is another change in this globalization scenario.

In 20^th century, English became an international language. By the end of 20^th century, English attained global status because the modern world required a global language to connect regions, countries and continents for global communication. English was used as a tool for communicating with one another. The history of English language and its characteristics, the colonialism of Britain and the imperialism of America today are the driving forces for the spread of English language across the world.

This paper explains about the language groups, the trends of globalization, the importance of a global language and English as a global language in a comprehensive manner.