International English Language Day

Uniting the World Through Words

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the role of English as a global language continues to grow in significance. Celebrated annually on April 23rd, International English Language Day serves as a reminder of the remarkable impact this language has on communication, culture, and commerce worldwide. From boardrooms to classrooms, from literature to technology, English plays a pivotal role in shaping our interconnected world. In this article, we delve into the origins of International English Language Day, explore the importance of English in today’s society, and reflect on the diverse ways in which it enriches our lives. Join us in commemorating this linguistic celebration and honoring the power of English to unite people across borders and cultures.

Origins and History:

The roots of International English Language Day can be traced back to April 23rd, the birthday of William Shakespeare, one of the most renowned figures in English literature. Additionally, this date marks the death anniversary of another literary giant, Miguel de Cervantes, the author of Don Quixote, a masterpiece of Spanish literature. The coincidence of these two literary luminaries’ commemorations led the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to designate April 23rd as World Book and Copyright Day. Within the broader context of promoting literacy and cultural heritage, UNESCO also recognized the significance of English as an international language and established International English Language Day to honor its global importance.

William Shakespeare Birthday

Known worldwide as one of the men who shaped the English language as we know it today with his works, this author remains relevant in the 21st century. We often find ourselves repeating phrases from his writings in our daily lives, extending far beyond the famous “To be or not to be”. While there is still debate on the matter, it’s undeniable that this author has contributed between 1700 and 2200 words to the English language, which is quite significant. Only about 5% of these words are no longer in use today.

Every day, as we speak English, we unknowingly reference Shakespeare. Expressions like “Heart of gold,” “Brave new world,” and “Break the ice” originate from his works. It’s fascinating to see how these expressions have also been adapted into Spanish through various translations of his plays. Here we bring you some words from Old English to Understand Poetry

List of Old English words

It’s common that at first you may find many words that don’t make sense to you; this listis going to help you improve your understanding of literature from that era.

Alas!: Used to express sorrow or concern. Example: Alas!
Ere: Old form of before. Example: Fly ere the daylight dawn.
Thou: The ancient pronoun for “you”. Example: Thou/You are improving your English.
Thy: The possessive form of the second person. Example: I have talked to thy/your sister.
Thee: Used instead of “you” when acting as an accusative pronoun. Example: I am waiting for thee/you.
’tis: Replaces the expression It is. Example: ‘tis snow season

Celebrating Diversity

International English Language Day holds significance not only as a tribute to the language itself but also as a celebration of linguistic diversity and cultural exchange. English, with its rich history and evolution, has transcended national boundaries to become a shared language of communication for people from diverse backgrounds. This day serves as a reminder of the role English plays in fostering mutual understanding, facilitating trade and diplomacy, and promoting cross-cultural dialogue.

From the nuances of accents and dialects to the incorporation of local idioms and expressions, English has evolved into a mosaic of linguistic variations that reflect the cultural tapestry of its speakers. Whether it’s the rhythmic cadence of Caribbean English, the lyrical flow of Indian English, or the crisp articulation of British English, each dialect contributes to the vibrant spectrum of the language.

Impact on Education and Communication:

In an increasingly interconnected world, proficiency in English has become a valuable asset in both academic and professional settings. English serves as the primary medium of instruction in many educational institutions globally, offering students access to a wealth of knowledge and resources in fields ranging from science and technology to arts and humanities. Moreover, proficiency in English enhances opportunities for cross-cultural communication and collaboration, empowering individuals to engage with diverse perspectives and participate in the global marketplace.

International English Language Day serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of English as a global language and the pivotal role it plays in shaping our interconnected world. As we reflect on the linguistic journey that has brought us to this moment, let us celebrate the diversity of English and its capacity to unite people from all walks of life. In the words of Nelson Mandela, “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.” On this day, let us strive to speak not only with our heads but also with our hearts, as we embrace the universal language of English in fostering understanding, empathy, and solidarity across borders.

“WE DON´T JUST BORROW WORDS ON OCCASION, ENGLISH HAS PURSUED OTHER LANGUAGES DOWN ALLEYWAYS TO BEAT THEM UNCONSCIOUS AND RIFLE THEIR POCKERTS FOR NEW VOCBULARY”

JAMES NICOLL