LATIN AND GERMANIC ELEMENTS IN ENGLISH: A LINGUISTIC AND CULTURAL ANALYSIS
LATIN AND GERMANIC ELEMENTS IN ENGLISH: A LINGUISTIC AND CULTURAL ANALYSIS
Author(s): Paul-Cristian AlbuSubject(s): Language studies, Language and Literature Studies, Semiotics / Semiology, Theoretical Linguistics, Applied Linguistics, Lexis, Semantics, Language acquisition, Historical Linguistics, Comparative Linguistics, Sociolinguistics, Philology, Translation Studies, Phraseology, Stylistics
Published by: Editura Arhipelag XXI
Keywords: English language; Germanic vocabulary; Latin influence; linguistic hybridization; lexical registers;
Summary/Abstract: English is a hybrid language, shaped by the interplay of its Germanic roots and Latin-derived vocabulary acquired through historical, cultural, and intellectual influences. Approximately 60% of English words are of Latin origin, while the Germanic core constitutes roughly 26–30% of the total lexicon, forming the foundation of grammar, syntax, and essential vocabulary. This article examines how these dual elements coexist, focusing on their contributions to daily communication, literature, and cognitive processing. The Germanic layer anchors English in emotional immediacy and idiomatic expression, while the Latinate layer provides abstraction, formality, and literary sophistication. By exploring historical channels, literary examples, and stylistic implications, this study highlights the complementary nature of English’s dual heritage and its enduring impact on expression and thought.
Journal: Journal of Romanian Literary Studies
- Issue Year: 2025
- Issue No: 43
- Page Range: 474-478
- Page Count: 5
- Language: English
