French Influences on English

The French language is one of the most popular languages in the world, and is represented at various international organizations, including being an official language of the United Nations. It has also had an influence on other languages, such as English, where it is represented in legal terms as well as words commonly used in everyday English.
  1. Vocabulary

    • The English language has absorbed many French words that are used on a frequent basis. These are often words that are so ingrained in English that we sometimes forget about their French origin. For example, we have a "rendezvous" at a "café," or send a "résumé," or even ask people to "RSVP" us for an event, which stands for "réspondez, s'il vous plaît," meaning "answer, please." These and other French expressions, particularly in the areas of food and art, are used on a regular basis in the English language.

    Grammar

    • French grammar has also influenced certain aspects and expressions in the English language. In French, the adjective often follows the noun and this tendency is found in certain expressions like "surgeon general," "governor general" or "court martial." This grammatical structure has been embraced by the English language, which is unnatural for the English grammar structure.

    Culinary Terms

    • Any "chef" or "gourmet" will vouch for the importance of French when it comes to cooking, or rather "cuisine." In fact, the menu gives you options of "hors d'oeuvres" and the main dish is often referred to as "entrée." You can choose to have your food "sautéed" and have a "crème brûlée" or "crêpe" for "dessert." In fact, French has such a strong influence on gastronomy and culinary terms that aspiring chefs are required to have at least a basic level of French.

    Phrases And Idiomatic Expressions

    • The French language has also influenced syntax, word order and certain idiomatic expressions that we take for granted in English. The following frequently used English phrases and idiomatic expressions can be traced to French, for example, "at your service," "do me a favor," "in detail," "in favor of," "in particular," and "the last resort."

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