阅读理解。
Every day, 340 million people speak it. One billion people are learning it and it is said that by 2050, half
of the world's population will be using it. What are we talking about? That global language-English.
The English language started in Britain in the 5th century. It is a mixed language. It was built up when
German, Scandinavian and French invaders settled in England and created a common language for
communication.
Today it is the official language of the UK, the USA, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, South Africa and
Ireland as well as many islands in the Caribbean Many other countries and regions use it for politics and
business, for example, India, Pakistan, Nigeria and the Philippines. English is also one of the official languages
of Hong Kong.
But global advertising and pop music mean that in most countries, you will see or hear some English.
Thanks to McDonald's, we all know about "burgers", "fries" and "milkshakes". Songs by Madonna, Britney
Spears and Celine Dion are in English. We can sing along, even if we do not understand what we are singing!
English is a messy (杂乱的) language. Every year, dictionaries include new words that talk about popular
culture, for example, computer-related words such as "blogging", "download" and "chat room". Also included
are words that teenagers use. Who does not know "cool", "OK" or "hello"?
Other languages also influence English. Many English words come from French. Words like "cafe" and
expressions like "c'est la vie" (that is life) are all part of the English language. On the other hand, the French
language includes English words like "le weekend" and "le camping". German words are also part of English.
Words like "kindergarten" come from the German language.
Recently, British people have become interested in "yoga". But the word comes from an ancient Hindu
language in India.
1. The English language has a history of _____.
A. over 2000 years
B. over 500 years
C. over 1500 years
D. over 1000 years
2. The underlined expression "Thanks to" can be replaced by _____.
A. Because of
B. Thankful to
C. Not until
D. As if
3. Which of the following statements is true about the language of English?
A. It has been changing all the time.
B. It has borrowed words from all the other languages.
C. French words are used by the English because dictionaries have French words.
D. Singers and film stars have the greatest influence on language.
4. How many people in the world are using English now?
A. One billion people.
B. 340 million.
C. Almost all the people in the world.
D. None of the above.
5. Many countries and regions use it for politics and business except _____.
A. the USA
B. Nigeria
C. the Philippines
D. Norway
