The Influence of the French Language on English

The influence of the French language on English has been significant and enduring. This influence can be categorized into three main periods:

Old Norman Influence (11th to 14th centuries): 

The most profound French influence on English came after the Norman Conquest of England in 1066 when the Normans, who spoke Old Norman (a variety of Old French), established their rule. During this period, English borrowed many words related to law, government, art, literature, and cuisine. For example, words like "court," "judge," "jury," "parliament," "council," "government," "beef," "pork," "chicken," and "music" have French origins. This infusion of French vocabulary enriched the English language and created a linguistic distinction between the Anglo-Saxon commoners (who raised and cared for animals) and the Norman aristocracy (who enjoyed the prepared dishes). Read More Philology

Middle French Influence (14th to 16th centuries): 

During the Middle Ages, Middle English continued to absorb French vocabulary, largely due to the prestige of French in courts and literature. Many words related to chivalry, fashion, art, and poetry were borrowed. For instance, "chivalry," "glamour," "poetry," and "adventure" entered English during this period. Read More Philology

Modern French Influence (17th century to the present):

 French influence on English has persisted throughout the centuries. It is especially evident in areas like culinary terminology, fashion, diplomacy, and the arts. In more recent times, French words and phrases have continued to be incorporated into English, reflecting the ongoing cultural and diplomatic interactions between the two languages. Words like "ballet," "restaurant," "chef," "boulevard," "façade," "genre," "rendezvous," and "lingerie" are examples of this ongoing influence. Read More Philology

Today, French words and expressions continue to be used in various domains, including cuisine, fashion, and the arts, adding elegance and nuance to the English language. The enduring influence of French on English underscores the dynamic nature of language and its ability to evolve through cultural exchange and historical events.

Here are some common French loanwords used in English: Read More Philology

Cuisine: Referring to the style or method of cooking, it's commonly used in the context of French cuisine.
Déjà vu: The feeling that you have experienced something before.
Fiancé/Fiancée: A man engaged to be married is a "fiancé," while a woman is a "fiancée."
Rendezvous: A meeting or appointment, often used in a romantic context.
Champagne: A type of sparkling wine, named after the Champagne region in France.
Décor: Refers to the decoration or furnishings of a room or space.
Lingerie: Women's underwear or sleepwear.
Cliché: An overused phrase or idea.
Sabotage: To deliberately destroy or disrupt something.
Entrepreneur: Someone who starts and manages a business venture.
Début: The beginning or first appearance of something, often used in the context of a person's career.
Faux pas: An embarrassing or socially awkward mistake or blunder.
Elite: A select group considered superior in terms of ability, wealth, or social status.
Coup d'état: A sudden and often violent overthrow of a government.
Café: A small restaurant or coffeehouse.
Bon appétit: A French expression used to wish someone a good meal.
Avant-garde: Refers to innovative or experimental ideas and works, especially in the arts.
Renaissance: A period of cultural and artistic revival in Europe.
Ensemble: A group of musicians, actors, or dancers who perform together.
Ballet: A classical dance form that originated in the French courts.

More Examples: art, ballet, beauty, boutique, bouquet, café, chef, cuisine, embarrass, entrepreneur, fashion, gourmet, hotel, hygiene, interview, leisure, lingerie, magazine, makeup, menu, mustache, perfume, restaurant, routine, souvenir, table, tennis, wardrobe

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References

History of the English language : Lounsbury, Thomas R., 1838-1915 : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive. (n.d.). Internet Archive. https://archive.org/details/historyofenglish00loun_0

Curzan, A., & Emmons, K. (2004, January 1). Studies in the History of the English Language II. Walter de Gruyter.