We have all at some point questioned how the English language gained dominance over other languages. We can connect the hegemony of the English language to globalization, capitalism, colonialism, and neocolonialism amongst other things. As we question its hegemony, we still cannot deny this language’s influence in the modern world. Thus, all people with the desire to succeed beyond their communities of birth must learn this language. The discussion below shares a brief history of how the English language gained its hegemony and the importance of learning this language.

How did the English Language Gain International Dominance?

According to Guo and Beckett, over a billion people speak English as a second language or a foreign language. This leaves those without access to learning the language disadvantaged and failing to compete for opportunities. Furthermore, it runs the risk of indigenous languages being neglected and consequently, going obsolete. The question is, how did we get here? We outline a few factors that have contributed to English gaining dominance over other languages.

Colonialism

Many countries in the world have been victims of colonization. This involved another country or nation with economic and political power colonizing a nation less powerful.

It included the colonizer imposing their belief systems, cultures, and languages on the colonized nation. Often, the Native English speakers were the colonizers and that is how most parts of the world adopted this language as a second or foreign language.

Capitalism

The English language was mainly used in academia and business dealings. The more the British advanced their trade and business dealings to other parts of the world, the more English spread.

To gain access to business opportunities, people across the globe had to learn to speak the language. In turn, it became known as the language of business.  Of course, capitalism is widely spread and even today people are willing to do anything to gain business opportunities.

Globalization and American Entertainment

American businesses gained momentum post the world wars and spread across the globe. Naturally, the English language was the business language that concluded and conducted business transactions.

In addition, the American entertainment scene spread quickly across the globe with popular music and movies using English as the medium of communication. As a result, the English language is regarded as the media language today.

Technology

The development and spread of technology and the internet are naturally in the English language as the internet was invented in America. As technology reached all parts of the world, it had to be consumed in English. Consequently, English is also regarded as the language of communication and technology.

Why Should I learn English in the Global World?

English is an International Language

The English language is a common language of communication globally. It is the second most popular second language in the world. If you are going to communicate with global citizens, you need to learn at least basic conversation skills.

The Media Language

English is used for most multimedia content globally. For example, social media is a fast-growing and influential form of media in the modern world. To strive in this media era, having English communication skills is a bonus.

Business Opportunities

It has become almost a requirement for people to speak English in the business world. As already said, most businesses are concluded and conducted using the English language. If you seek access to the global business market, it’s important to understand and speak the language.

Unfortunately, people have strict requirements for whom they conduct business with and the skills that a person must possess. Fluency in English is often one of those requirements, especially if you are expanding your business beyond your country. Furthermore, fluency in written language is an advantage in some business transactions.

Employment Opportunities

It is no secret that English is currently the measure of intelligence and competence in professional spaces. Job applications are often done online in English. Interviews are conducted in English and sometimes you may be required to take a competency test which is also in English.

If you are looking to join the global workforce, then you will need the ability to speak and write fluently. International opportunities, including promotions, are given to those with good command of the English language.

University Admission Requirement

Learning English can assist you in your dreams to further your studies. Most Universities in the world, if not all, use English as a language of teaching and learning. The admission exam is often in English, and if they interview as part of the enrolment process, it will most likely be in English.

Although you may make it in your country without English, it goes without saying that if you are looking to study abroad, you certainly need to know how to speak and write English.

Access to the Internet and Entertainment

English is the digital language of computers, the internet, and multimedia content. Most technological creations are created in English. In addition, multimedia content is mostly produced and published in English. To have access to and enjoy a variety of offline and online media, you need to speak English so that you can understand the content.

Much is lost and much is added in translation, thus you cannot rely on translation to fully understand the true meaning of words in books, movies, or music. 

Why Should I Sign Up for the Hanatutor English Language Training?

Our English language training is customized training aimed at meeting the different needs of our students. Every month we enroll people of different ages, circumstances, and goals. Our programs are well-suited to help you achieve your English learning goals.

Whether you are learning for fun, for an examination, or professional purposes, our program can accommodate your needs. Our tutors will consider your level of skill in the language and help you grow from there. We have programs for kids, students, young professionals, and the elderly.

We have native and non-native English tutors from all over the world. They are all qualified and skilled to assist you. You can choose the best tutor for you here.  

Why Are You Learning English?

We have shared with you a brief discussion of how the English language gained global dominance over other languages. In addition, we have pointed out to you the importance of learning English in the global world.

Although there are many arguments we can make, such as the importance of people’s indigenous languages and preserving them, we cannot deny the influence this language has over the entire world.

English has gained widespread status in the world that it is even connected to social status and opens doors for ordinary people to enter the most elite circles.

We would like to know why you are learning or have learned English. Please share with us by leaving a comment below.