“English language dominance is evident everywhere. What is the language of the Olympics, and the World Cup, may I ask? Of the Pacquiao boxing matches? Of Facebook, YouTube, blockbuster movies, cable television? In what language does Justin Bieber sing?” Leslie Lofranco-Berbano fusses.
Without a doubt, English is the universal language. It is used by Asians, Europeans, Africans, and so on. Other countries tend to master the English language better than their own native language, which lead the writer to ask. “Who owns the English language?” Some say when you can speak English without any pauses, and grammatical errors, you own it. Others say you own it once you are from America, England, you own it as well. But to whom does English language truly belong?
Being able to speak the English language has been a huge advantage when going outside the country. Let us face it, not everyone can understand our language, or the Filipino language. Three years ago, my family and I went to Thailand. The only Thai words I was able to remember were “Sawat Dee” and “Kop Khun” Other than that, I have nothing. Hence, the advantage of the English language, my family and I were able to tour Thailand happily with the help of the English language. Even the doormen, security guards, speak English, making communicating, and asking a whole lot easier.
On the other hand, being aware that English is the universal language, people choose to be more familiar with this language rather than their native languages. Yes, mastering the English language can bring us more opportunities to travel, work abroad, and so on. Mastering the language can even make us successful. But does this mean we must see English language as our primary language?
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