David Crystal's classic English as a Global Language considers the history, present status and future of the English language, focusing on its role as the leading international language. English has been deemed the most 'successful' language ever, with 1500 million speakers internationally, presenting a difficult task to those who wish to investigate it in its entirety. However, Crystal explores the subject in a measured but engaging way, always backing up observations with facts and figures. Written in a detailed and fascinating manner, this is a book written by an expert both for specialists in the subject and for general readers interested in the English language.
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In this book, David Crystal presents the future of the English language. According to Crystal, non-native speakers of English outnumber native speakers of English, so it could be said that English has become global. Add to this the fact that English has become the de facto language of business, science, technology, and diplomacy, and it becomes apparent that English belongs to the world. Crystal argues that English will become more influenced by non-native speakers in the future, so we will have to rethink the idea of the "native speaker". As a world language, English doesn't belong to the native speakers in countries such as England and America, but to all who speak it. To speak a language gives you the right to use it as you will.
This is a very interesting book on the spread of world English. I really recommend it.
I read this book from cover to cover, very quickly. Crystal definitely provides some useful history and insight. I think he breaks a lot of assumptions about language.
Arrived in good condition. I originally picked it up for my Extended Project research, but it is interesting enough to read it anyway - even when I decided to drop the EPQ. Crystal is practically worshiped by my college's English Language department, and I can certainly see why.
David Crystal never dissapoints a linguist. Everything is explained so that everybody can access those materials but at the same time he is very meticulous and gives good points and explanations. I use it for university and it is great.