Language is the primary source of our communication. Through it, we’re able to express ourselves and convey our thoughts into messages. This universal truth makes the English language the life source of communication in the world.
English became so popular that it became the universal language. Even the non-native English-speaking races are using it as their second language. It’s being taught in almost every corner of the globe because people recognize its power.
Nearly everything in our society nowadays is affected by globalization, and language is one factor that contributes to it. Communication is vital to understand each other, so the push for learning English in non-English speaking countries exists. Besides that, you’ll see different points in this article that emphasize the importance of learning English in today’s world.
English is the common tongue
Arguably the most prominent reason why learning English is important in our current time is that most people speak it. Research says that English is spoken by 1.5 billion people, which is 20% of the global population. Out of that portion, only 360 million are native English speakers.
The numbers don’t lie, and they basically prove the importance of studying English if you want to communicate on an international level. Knowing the language will help bridge people around the world through whatever medium of communication they’re using. Non-native speakers realize that, thus, the ESL teacher job market continues to grow. (ESL means English as a Second Language).
Although it’s common, English is not the most spoken language globally; Mandarin is, but that’s only counting native speakers. If you include non-native speakers, then English is the more dominant. In fact, 53 countries listed it as their official language.
English is the language of education
The field of education uses English prominently. It’s recognized as the language of higher education, as most world-renowned universities and colleges use English. It’s also prominent in the field of scientific research in most scientific areas.
It’s also the most popular medium of instruction, even in non-English speaking countries. It’s because English is the second language in that country or educational institutions seek to improve their speaking and writing skills. They realize the power that the language has internationally, so they implement it as their official language of instruction.
English is heavily used online
The majority of the websites online uses English. It doesn’t have to be their default language, but even websites made by non-English speakers have an option to have it translated into English. Over 50% of websites online use it as their content’s language.
The global workforce speaks English
English is the language you need if you venture into international business or employment. There is plenty of research that found most cross-border business communication is conducted in English. Employers worldwide expect their employees to be proficient English speakers because of it.
Regardless of which field you’re in, if you desire to pursue a career on an international level, you need English. Its prevalence extends to even government organizations so they can fulfill global functions.
Final thoughts
With its strong ties to most countries’ society and culture, English is indeed the universal language. This language is the bridge that connects everyone in the world. Its importance can’t be understated, especially in today’s world and the future.
Author’s Bio:
Angelo Castelda is a freelance writer from Asia. Besides writing, he also spends his time traveling and learning about diverse cultures, which opened his heart more to learning and imparting knowledge about ESL.
