English as international language
It is absolutely true that in recent times there have been introduced various different kinds of communication systems which at present play a very significant role in aiding the transfer of information. But these are all secondary modes of communication. The primary means of communication with the help of which it is possible for one to convey one’s feelings and innermost thoughts to another individual is language. Language is the key mode of communication and it is language which permits the outflow of emotions and feelings, joys and sorrows which are irreplaceable in one’s daily course of life. Different countries of the world have their own languages most of which hail form rich traditions that can be traced in history and each language follows a distinct form of grammatical rules. It is interesting to note that if an extensive study is conducted in order to determine one universal language of communication, then the answer would doubtlessly emerge as English. A striking feature that is unique to the English language is that it is a popular mode of communication in almost all the countries of the world and is dominantly used for professional purposes. Therefore English can be easily termed with the epithet of being an international language. In most countries, English is studied as a second language following the native language of that nation. The English language has often been referred to by various names in this context of emerging as a global language like General English, World English, Global English etc.
Various reasons have contributed considerably in making English a language of immense importance in the global sphere. While some of the reasons are natural progressions, there are also several policies and rules shaped by various governments which have immensely promoted the spread of English. This is true in certain countries whereby national legislations have ensured the English language an important status and therefore it is mandatory for the citizens to have adequate knowledge of this language. Moreover, English language courses are widespread in all parts of the world and the growing popularity and importance of English in the international sphere has played in a central role in popularizing these courses. Due to increased popularity the course fees are nominal which encourages a wider range of students to take up the learning of the English language. International organizations like the United Nations often also regulate certain measures to ensure the spread of English and implement rules by making the study of English mandatory in primary school levels.
