As we’ve shared in years past, the United Nations created English Language Day to celebrate the English language and correspond with William Shakespeare’s birthday, April 23rd!
2020 English Facts:
1.348 billion English speakers worldwide
379 million native English speakers
English is still rated as the most important language to learn.
As is our tradition on this day, we’d like to introduce you to a selection of the new English words added to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary this year. In this year’s list, we’re focusing on English words that evolved from cultural trends:
Performative - made or done for show
Hygge - a cozy quality that makes a person feel content and comfortable
Cancel culture - practice of engaging in mass canceling as a way of expressing disapproval or exerting social pressure
Second-gentleman - the husband or male partner of a vice president
Gig-worker - a person who works temporary jobs typically as an independent contractor or freelancer
Hard pass - a firm refusal or rejection
Give some of these words a try! If you’d like to further increase your vocabulary, try playing Freerice! The World Food Programme’s English Vocabulary Game that helps feed the hungry.
Want to learn more? Schedule at demo now!
