A Discussion of the Advantages and Disadvantages of English as a Global Language

Global language has been described by Crystal (1997) as ’A language achieves a genuinely global status when it develops a special role that is recognized in every country.’ Global language is a language of the medium in the international communication. As a medium of communication, it is used in many places, such as trade, academic, technology and science. This is a common international language and the population who uses it is the most in the world. Many people who use global language as a second language is not depend on the number of decisions. International organization and diplomacy is one decision factor. It is probable that English will be the primary language in the future. When Britain became powerful, English has shown a unique ability to absorb and evolve. In the earliest period, the spread of English was through colonization. Abdullah (2012) observes that English also propagate to other parts of the world through colonization sprouting from transacting between traders under the East Indies Company and native people in Asia and Africa. The English ultimately laid the status of a global language. It is important to evaluate English as a global language. Therefore, the purpose of this essay is to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of English as a global language. In particular it will address whether English as a global language is positive. However, there are many different aspects so this essay will limit its focus to English as a global language in the areas of economy, education and status has a number of disadvantages. At first, this essay will provide three aspects to summarize. English used as a global language in economy, education and culture. Secondly, it will analyse the three issues in advantages and disadvantages. Finally, it will discuss its positive and negative of English as a global language. The conclusion will summarize the advantages and disadvantages of English as a global language.

English as a global language has some advantages and disadvantages for the economy. The most important advantages of English are to promote the development of economy. Bruthiaux (2002) explains that area base associated with relative economic superpower status. For example, during the 20th century the reason why the United States became a major economic power without being shaken is the language behind the United States dollar was English (Crystal 1997). That is why, unity of language can affect economy. In addition, English was used in some international trade. Abdullah and Chaudhary (2012) state that manufacturer and other entities which want to be part of the international market, producing items and services are inclined toward the English language. In other words, manufacturers and other entities can easily be part of the international market when English become a global language. For instance, the name of trademark will be made into English by manufacturers. Because this approach can help them compete in the international