English Language

The English language is derived from Germanic languages, which are derived from Indo-European languages, but it is not definitely known how, when, or even where Indo-European languages began. Ever since the Elizabethan Age the number of people speaking English as their first language, or mother tongue, has grown rapidly. For several years now English has been accepted in virtually every part of the world as the preferred second language. It is no accident that the leaders of France and Germany speak to each other in English, and the English language shows no signs of losing its international appeal. Below are articles with information about the English and Old English languages.
  • How to Create a Pun
    Do you intend to have some pun-ny fun? Here is an itinerary that will guide you on how to create a pun. The ingredients to make your pun-wit work wonders with your audiences, is presented in this article...
  • Rhetorical Figures
    Put simply, rhetorics is the art of effective and persuasive speech. What are rhetorical figures and devices? Read ahead to find out.
  • What is Figurative Language?
    The subtlety of the English language is not unknown to anybody. What can be said literally can also be transformed easily into a beautiful flow of words that adds so much profoundness to what has been said. This is what figurative language is, the ability to inconspicuously define the literal. Here's a look into the depths of figurative language.
  • Types of Figurative Language
    What is figurative language and what are the different types of figurative language? In this article, we try and explain to you the concept of figurative language.
  • What Does Circa Mean
    What does circa mean? Have you been asked this question but not been able to answer? That's about to change with this article.
  • What is the Difference Between Affect and Effect?
    Understanding the difference between affect and effect is a little difficult, particularly for students who tend to make this mistake in the process of writing. Here's a look into the difference between the two terms with the help of some examples.
  • How to Speak with a British Accent
    Want to know how to get a British accent, for official reasons or maybe just for kicks. Read on to know all that you need to get the perfect accent.
  • How to Spell a Word
    Do you have problems spelling? If you want to learn to spell better, there are many different techniques that you can use to make the task at hand easier.
  • How to Spell
    One of the best tips on how to spell a word is to understand how the word is actually pronounced...
  • Printable Alphabet Letters
    Toddlers love colors. Now, teaching them to read alphabets gets all the more easy with colorful printable alphabet letters. These alphabets are easy and fascinating to use, and can be printed and reused as and when you please.
  • Consonance Examples
    What is consonance? A figure of speech that is easiest to understand with the examples that are given in this article. Read on to understand the concept that is known as consonance.
  • Types of Sentences
    There are 4 types of sentences that are generally used in the English language. These types of sentences help add some interest when used in written as well as oral communication. Let's learn about the different types of sentences used in English grammar.
  • Compliment vs Complement
    In this article, you will learn how to get over the confusion about when to use compliment and when to use complemen. Read it, understand it and you'll know how to use them.
  • Principle vs Principal
    When to use principal and principle is one of the most confusing things about the English language. This article will attempt to remove this confusion once and for all!
  • Difficult Words to Spell
    With the presence of thousands of words in the English language, there are plenty of difficult words to spell that we tend to overlook. This article will present some of the most commonly misspelt words for you.
  • Cool Words
    Looking up for cool words to flaunt your vocabulary in front of your friends? You have found a gold mine. Keep reading...
  • Insure Vs. Ensure Vs. Assure
    In this article, I present a comparison between the meaning and usage of insure, assure and ensure, that will clear out confusion regarding them. Keep reading to clarify your understanding of these three words.
  • Jargon Examples
    We all come across jargon examples in everyday life. Read on to uncover some interesting facts about jargon and its usage.
  • Effective Vs. Affective
    It is easy to get confused with the proper usage of the words effective and affective as they sound similar, and have similar spelling. However, it is the meaning that splits them apart.
  • Consonance: Examples of Consonance
    Consonance, which is also known as literary consonance, in itself is always considered to be a part of the figure of speech of alliteration. A few examples of consonance have been provided which will help explain this figure of speech.
  • Figuratively Speaking: What Does It Mean
    Figuratively speaking is the use of the English language in a non literal way, and remains a fascinating way to explore the boundaries of speech and literature through innovative play on words.
  • Tautology Examples
    Tautology is one of the easiest figures of speech. If you want to know some easy and funny tautology examples, read on...
  • Complicated Words
    Complicated words make up a major part of the English language. If you are a proud logophile, then you will find this article very appealing. Let's have a look at some unusual words.
  • Limerick Format
    Limericks are fun, five line poems, with specific rhythm patterns that are extremely easy to compose if you know the correct format of a limerick. In this article, we discuss the prevalent limerick format to enable you to write your own verse.
  • Double Negative Examples
    Double negatives are used so casually but they can sometimes be extremely confusing. Here's all you need to know about double negatives with the help of useful examples.
  • Commonly Misspelled Words
    There are a myriad of words which people tend to misspell. This article will give you some of the most commonly misspelled words in English.
  • Abstract Nouns
    What are abstract nouns? How are abstract nouns different from concrete nouns? Read to get all the answers.
  • Pun Examples
    Examples of pun help to understand this exciting figure of speech better. Given below are a few examples that spell out what a pun is and how to use it...
  • Limerick Examples
    What are limericks? Where can I find some examples of limerick? Read on for some limerick examples that will help you understand this interesting form of poetry...
  • Puns for Kids
    Looking for fun puns to teach kids in a new way? Read on to know some funny puns for kids, that will make lessons at the classroom more than fun!
  • Unusual Words
    Everyone knows that English is a funny language! But you also must know it is a strange language with many unusual words which many of us don't even know exist. Find some such unusual words in the provided list and learn when to use them.
  • Overused Words
    Most of the time we are unaware of the fact, that overuse of words make our language messy and clumsy, be it oral or textual. Read this article and get to know the most overused words.
  • Stereotypes List
    Stereotypes are as common as there are phrases in the English Language. Let us look at some of these stereotypes in the following article.
  • Improve Your Vocabulary
    What are the most effective ways of improving one's vocabulary? Scroll down to learn about methods that may help you to improve your vocabulary.
  • Euphemism Examples
    An euphemism is a tool that helps an individual sound politically and morally correct in the midst of others. See the euphemism examples given here to understand the concept better. The aim of euphemisms is to avoid offending a particular person or party...
  • Longest Word in the English Language
    Which is the longest word in the English language? How many letters long is this word? Well, this article provides information on not only the longest word in terms of letter size, but also throws light on some other interesting words in the English language!
  • Puns in Romeo and Juliet
    Use of puns made Romeo and Juliet, a tragic love story a bit lighter. Read on to know some examples of puns in this play...
  • List of Puns
    Making a meaningful pun requires skill, if you are trying hard to acquire this skill, you should refer to the following article on the list of puns.
  • Palindrome Examples
    You must be knowing one word palindrome examples, like "dad" and "civic", but did you know that there are long palindromic sentences and phrases? Then read this article and learn some famous examples of palindromes.
  • Figures of Speech List
    Improve your language skills by learning how to use figures of speech. Read on to know about figures of speech list.
  • Empathy Vs. Sympathy
    Are you confused about the usage of the words, empathy and sympathy? The use of the word empathy versus the use of the word sympathy has been a cause of mistake for several speakers of the language. This article tries to explain the meaning of these words and helps you understand how to use the words properly.
  • Figures of Speech - Examples
    Learn how to improve your writing and oratory skills by using various figures of speech. These can be understood with the help of these examples of figures of speech.
  • Metonymy Vs. Synecdoche
    Metonymy vs synecdoche has been a hot debate for quite some time now. If you want to drive away your confusion about the meaning, usage and difference between these two figures of speech, read on...
  • Metonymy Examples
    There are many figures of speech in the English language, one of them being metonymy. One can find metonymy examples in literary works like poetry, prose, drama, etc. Read on to know what is metonymy and about examples of metonymy.
  • Ensure Vs Insure
    Many people are confused about when to use ensure and insure. Given below is a comprehensive article on the hot debate of ensuring vs insuring...
  • Hyperbole Examples
    Are you in search of some hyperbole examples? If yes, then you have come to the right place as here you will find a long list of examples in this article.
  • List of Metaphors
    Are you in search of a list of metaphors? Well, you have come to the right place as here you will find a sad and funny metaphor list in this article. So read on...
  • Cool Words to Say
    Are you looking for some cool words to impress your friends? If yes, you are at the right place as here you will find a list of cool words that you can use during informal conversations.
  • Kinds of Sentences
    Do you want to understand the different types of sentences? Read on to learn more...
  • Metaphor Examples for Kids
    It is very easy to confuse a simile with a metaphor. So that you do not confuse a simile with a metaphor, here are some metaphor examples for kids, which help you with the differentiation...
  • Longest Word In The World
    Did you ever think that the longest word in the world would have a total of 189,819 letters? Learn more about the words of the English language that have baffled people over the years on their very existence.
  • List of Long Words and their Meanings
    Long words are so not easy to remember, as we always break these words in to small bits to learn their spellings. Let's take a look at such type of words. Here is a list for you.
  • How to Improve Vocabulary
    With the Internet, texting and TV constantly morphing the language we use, kids today have a rather weak grasp on vocabulary skills. Here is what you can do to improve it.
  • Pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis
    Obviously, Pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis is one of the longest words in English language. This article will tell you more on the meaning and pronunciation of this word.
  • Types of Nouns
    Nouns are a very, very pivotal part of the English language. No message, conversation or expression can be complete without a noun as the subject. However, people often have issues in understanding them. So, let's take them on, one by one.
  • Examples of Similes
    Simile is one of the most basic figures of speech. Get to know everything about similes through A-Z examples of similes, in this article.
  • Most Commonly Misspelled Words
    Are you looking for the most commonly misspelled words? Well, I was looking for them too. After a few days of hunting, I found them. Hence, to keep my readers from searching like me, I have them all here together. Read on...
  • Do You Interrobang?
    This previously little-known punctuation mark is causing a stir in grammar circles.
  • British Spelling Vs American Spelling
    British spelling vs American spelling. Now what's this!!! English, the language that is spoken all around the globe. And as we all know, it's either the American spellings or the British spellings that is followed by any individual, depending upon which part of the world he comes from.
  • Idioms and Their Meanings
    Have you ever been puzzled by a certain phrase? Well, here are the answers to your puzzles. Idioms and their meanings listed below will help you understand the English language better.
  • Glossary of Literary Terms
    Not only do literary terms give greater relevance to words and their meanings, they add to the beauty of a language. Most often we use these literary terms without understanding the rules of usage behind them. And then when we hear the terms, they seem to indicate something we can hardly relate to. To ease the confusion, here is a glossary of literary terms and definitions that will help you to better appreciate the elegance of English language.
  • Indian vs American Word Usage
    This article talks about some of the differences between Indian and American English. It is an interesting and useful read if you're an Indian writing for American readers, or vice versa!
  • List of Interesting Words in English
    English language has a huge data of interesting words. Find out some really interesting words in English as the articles unfolds to increase your vocabulary.
  • How to Speak English Fluently
    English is a globally accepted universal language; one that you can use to communicate with, all over the world. Nonetheless, are you having problems with speaking English fluently? Well then, here is your chance to speak English better. Check out this article for more on speaking fluent English.
  • Japanese Words in English
    I am of the opinion, that there may hardly be a language in the world, which is not influenced by at least one another language. Just like many English words have proliferated the Japanese language, there are many Japanese words in English as well. Read on further to know these words...
  • Immigrants Afraid that English Classes May Be Eliminated
    As states cut budgets for adult literacy education, immigrants worry that they will no longer have resources to learn English.
  • Examples of Hyperboles
    Do you know what a hyperbole is? This article will help you understand hyperboles using interesting examples of hyperboles...
  • Rules of English Grammar
    Here is an article which aims to guide you through the rules of English Grammar.
  • English Restoration
    No, English Restoration does not mean a renewed interest in the English language and an attempt to revive it! That's what some students think in my History class actually! But, do you know what English Restoration means?
  • Phonetic Alphabet
    Have you wondered what people are saying when they start using words instead of letters of the alphabet? They are most certainly using the phonetic alphabet, here is some useful information regarding the same.
  • Teaching English Lessons
    We all know what a huge challenge teaching English lessons is. However, with a good deal of preparation for class and by using some interesting devices, you can make your class livelier and also impart a better quality of English education to your students.
  • Teaching English As A Second Language
    If you are in the very noble profession of teaching English, you will also appreciate the difficulties involved in the job. Having gained a fifteen-year experience of teaching English as a second language to Indian students, I feel quite qualified to divulge some of the problems and solutions that you would require to know. Here are some original ideas with regards to how you can make the learning effective - and fun.
  • History of the English Language
    English has emerged as the global language of the world. Here is a brief history of the English language which traces its checkered past.
  • Slang - The Other English Language
    Slang seems to be ubiquitous. Its use crosses time, culture, and language. Just as with "normal" English words, the meanings of the words used in this other English language can be found in online dictionaries.
  • You Can Change the English Language
    The English language is changing, and you are responsible! Whether we consider changes in grammar, spelling, pronunciation, or the very vocabulary of the language, you have played your part and continue to do so.
  • The F-Word
    If it is your serious intent to insult someone, why would you want to wish them with one of life's principle pleasures?
  • Musical Mondegreens
    She was mighty disappointed to learn it was the Earl that was buried and not Lady Mondegreen that was slain.
  • Maddening Malapropisms
    The term 'Malapropism' is derived from the French term mal a propos, which translates as 'ill to purpose'. If I reprehend anything in this world it is the use of my oracular tongue, and a nice derangement of epitaphs.
  • The Very Funny English Language
    English, unless you grew up with its eccentricities, can be a rather difficult and confusing language to learn. The rule is that the rule doesn't always rule.
  • Bible and English Language
    Bible translations made great impact on English as language and literature. Wyclif, Tyndale and Coverdale translated Bible in significant way.
  • Red Red English!
    So what's 'red' in English?
    'Red-letter days', 'paint the town red' and more. And the difference between 'red light' & 'red-light'.
  • English Blues!
    The influence of 'Blue' on English: a few words, phrases & expressions influenced by blue.
  • How Black is Thy English? - Part 2
    Some more words, phrases & expressions that contain 'black'.
  • How Black is Thy English? - Part 1
    Some words, phrases & expressions that contain 'black'.
  • The Games That Words Play!
    Here are some English phrases that have their origin in the games and sports that people play.
  • Wanna Gamble? You Bet!
    Many English phrases have their origins in gambling. Don't think so? Wanna bet?
  • Dravidian English
    How has the Dravidian family of languages influenced English? Pakistan and Nepal, include 26 languages, prominent amongst which are Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam and Telugu.
  • Guru in English! - Part 2
    Continuing with the influence of Sanskrit on English, here are a few more words with their origins in Sanskrit, the ancient Hindu language from Northern India?
  • Guru in English! - Part 1
    What has been the influence of Sanskrit on English? And what are the words that are derived from this ancient Hindu language from Northern India?
  • Heart of the Matter
    Everyone knows that the heart has a very important place in the textbook of love, but do you know that it has an equally important place in the list of English phrases?
  • It's Only Words... 2
    As I had mentioned in one of my previous articles, English is a very exciting and intriguing language, especially 'Etymology', the study of the origins and development of words. This time we have three more words with interesting origins...
  • It's Only Words...?
    Many of the words and phrases in the English language are so ingrained in our day-to-day life that we do not even think twice before using them, but probe a bit and you will find that some of them have very interesting origins.
  • English Language Used in Malaysia
    This paper focuses on language, in terms of the English language used in Malaysia, the characteristics of this Malaysian English and the standard of the Malaysian English with comparison to other countries.
  • Lexical Relations: Hyponymy and Homonymy
    This article studies the lexical relations Hyponymy and Homonymy with their examples in brief.