We tell you 10 curiosities about English that will surprise you
In a world where words are bridges that connect cultures and experiences, 23 April stands out as a day of celebration: International English Language Day! It is a date full of anecdotes, curiosities and, above all, a reminder of the importance of global communication.
Did you know that 23 April not only commemorates William Shakespeare, the master of the English language, but also Miguel de Cervantes, the icon of Spanish literature? A fusion of cultures that reflects the richness of linguistic diversity!
At English Summer, we are passionate about this melting pot of languages and cultures, because we understand that learning a language goes beyond grammar and vocabulary. It's about immersing yourself in the culture, embracing the differences and celebrating the similarities that unite us as citizens of the world.
Discover 10 interesting facts about the history of the English language
English is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, but there are many interesting facts about the language that are not so well known... and they are very useful if you are learning English!
1) If you struggle to remember new vocabulary, relax! Apparently, English speakers are like grandparents who repeat their stories over and over again, as it's estimated that they only use the same 400 words 80% of the time.
2) The English alphabet is a very particular case, because it has 26 letters... but it surprises you with 44 different sounds. It's normal that you have trouble pronouncing certain words, because in Spanish we read the same way we write, practically.
3) English Language Day coincides with the birth and death of William Shakespeare for an interesting reason: it was he who invented approximately 1,700 words of the language! Words we use today, such as 'blushing', 'torture', 'birthplace'... were created to give life to the language. They were created to give life to his works!
4) English has earned the nickname "language of the air" because, regardless of its origin, this is the language in which all pilots and air traffic controllers must communicate.
5) There are words in English without vowels, for example rhythm or hymn. So your speech can become a linguistic challenge that even Sherlock Holmes would find intriguing!
6) Set. This is a word that has more personalities than a Hollywood actor. It can mean "set"; it can also mean "regulation", "dressing", "stage", and... we could go on, because it is the most chameleon-like English word there is, with more than 25 different definitions!
7) A new word is added to the dictionary every 2 hours. The Oxford Dictionary is like a word factory that never closes - who knows what the next word will be to make its big debut?
8) The longest word in English: Did you know that the longest word has 45 letters: It's "pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis". Yes, it's a real word, and it refers to a lung disease! Try saying that 3 times in a row, we dare you!
9) The mysterious verb "to google": Did you know that "to google" has become an officially recognised verb in dictionaries? You can now officially "google"! This shows how language can evolve and adopt terms from popular culture.
10) Did you know that taking an English course abroad is like having a language passport for unforgettable adventures?
After discovering 10 interesting facts about the language, are you ready for an adventure? We invite you to immerse yourself in a unique experience where you will not only learn English, but also explore stories, cultures, places and people that will enrich your academic and personal life. Get ready to take off for an unforgettable experience of learning and fun with English Summer!
Sign up for the online information meeting on 25 April and find out all the details about our courses abroad, whether in groups or individually, and enjoy a journey that will change your perspective of the world!