English Language Day

English Language Day History

English Language Day is dedicated to honouring the historical, cultural, and economic contributions of the English language to global society. The observance is marked with a variety of activities aimed at promoting linguistic diversity and multilingualism, as well as fostering a greater understanding of English literature, culture, and traditions. As English is one of the six official languages of the UN, English Language Day seeks to elevate its status, influence, and usage within UN organisations and other international institutions.

The origin of English Language Day traces back to 2010 when the UN's Department of Public Information established language days for each of their six official languages. The observance has specific resonance in the United Kingdom as English is the predominant native language. This is a day especially important for promoting a healthier understanding of the historical roots of English, its impact on World literature, and its shaping of modern linguistic trends in the UK. It also helps in the propagation of the diverse dialects of English that exist within the different regions of the United Kingdom.

English Language Day is observed in the United Kingdom through a plethora of activities such as literature fairs, educational seminars, and cultural programmes. Schools organise special lessons on the history and cultural influence of the English language, incorporating the noteworthy contributions of British English literature and dialects. Occasionally, quizzes, debates, and oratory activities are conducted to get a wider audience interested. English Language Day, is celebrated on 23rd April each year, coinciding with both the death anniversary of William Shakespeare and St. George's Day, the patron saint of England.

Facts about English Language Day

• There are six total working languages among the UN community and five other language days. They are: Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian and Spanish.
• There are approximately 106 total countries that use English as a first-language and some 339 million first-language speakers (i.e. it is their first and primary language spoken) worldwide.
• The English language can trace its origins back to the year 450 when invading German tribes spoke a similar language. The language of this time period came to be referred to as Old English. Native English speakers today would have trouble understanding it, as it has many differences to what we now consider the English language.
• Interestingly, the Oxford English Dictionary, the definitive record of the English language, contains more than 170,000 words in current use and originates from the UK. Yet, the average English-speaking adult has a working vocabulary of 20,000 to 35,000 words. English Language Day is a good occasion to learn a few more!
• The UK is where the English language originated, with Old English, originally known as 'Englisc', coming into use in the 5th century.

In the News and Trending in the UK for English Language Day

Top things to do in the UK for English Language Day

• Volunteer at a local English Second Language center that provides incoming immigrants with language training. Many of these centers operate with volunteers and you can help the learners practice their English.
• Visit the Globe Theatre: A theater associated with William Shakespeare in London. Shakespeare's plays are considered some of the greatest works in the English language.
• Read a book to more about the English Language in United Kingdom:
  1) The Adventure of English: The Biography of a Language - by Melvyn Bragg: This book explores the diverse history and malleability of the English language.
  2) The Oxford History of English - by Lynda Mugglestone: An academic guide to the history and development of the English language, as well as its many variants.