Definition of english

Short definition: The word English refers to the language spoken by millions of people around the world and also describes things related to England. People use it to talk about communication, learning, culture, and global interaction.

Looking for a clear and real-life explanation of the word English? The word English can refer to a language, a culture, a nationality, and even a way of communicating in the modern world. From classrooms and business meetings to movies, songs, and online conversations, English plays a huge role in connecting people across countries and backgrounds. Below, each meaning is explained in a relaxed, natural way with long examples that reflect how people truly use this word.

Related: England n., Englishman n., Englishwoman n., English-speaking adj.
Syllable: Eng-lish

1. (Noun) A widely spoken international language that is used in education, business, travel, and online communication.
   Learning English has opened many opportunities for her, especially when applying for jobs in international companies.
   He practices English every day, hoping to feel more confident when speaking with foreigners.
   Today, English is often the main language used in global meetings and online platforms.

   Synonyms: global language, international language, world language, lingua franca, common language, shared language, communication language, bridge language, universal language, global tongue, worldwide language, connecting language
   Antonyms: local language, minority language, regional tongue, native-only language, isolated language, community dialect, limited-use language, rare language, endangered language, fading tongue, obscure language, unused language

2. (Noun) The people of England or the culture associated with them.
   The English are often known for their politeness, especially in formal social situations.
   She became interested in English culture after watching historical films set in London.
   Many traditions of the English have influenced cultures around the world.

   Synonyms: people of England, Britons, English society, English culture, English community, English population, citizens of England, natives of England, English nation, English heritage, English tradition, English people
   Antonyms: foreigners, non-Britons, outsiders, immigrants, visitors, strangers, non-English people, overseas people, external communities, foreign cultures, international groups, outsiders to England

3. (Adjective) Related to England, its people, traditions, or institutions.
   He enjoys reading English literature, especially classic novels from the 19th century.
   She studies English history to better understand how modern Britain was formed.
   The restaurant serves traditional English food, like fish and chips.

   Synonyms: British, England-related, UK-based, Anglo, English-style, English-made, English-origin, English-traditional, English-cultural, English-national, English-local, English-domestic
   Antonyms: foreign, international, non-British, overseas, imported, global, non-English, external, outside England, international-style, foreign-made, alien

4. (Noun) A school subject focused on language skills, such as reading, writing, speaking, and literature.
   She always enjoyed English class, especially when they discussed novels and poems.
   His favorite subject at school is English, because it helps him express his ideas clearly.
   Studying English improved her confidence when speaking in public.

   Synonyms: language class, literature studies, communication studies, writing course, reading subject, language arts, verbal studies, English studies, humanities subject, literary class, communication course, speech studies
   Antonyms: math class, science subject, technical studies, numerical course, engineering field, non-language subject, science studies, math studies, physics class, chemistry class, coding course, technical training

5. (Figurative) A way of expressing ideas clearly and simply.
   Can you explain that again in plain English, so everyone can understand?
   He tried to put his thoughts into clear English, instead of using complicated terms.
   Sometimes people just want instructions in simple English, not in technical language.

   Synonyms: plain language, simple words, clear speech, everyday language, easy explanation, understandable talk, common speech, straightforward wording, basic language, simple expression, clear wording, natural speech
   Antonyms: technical jargon, complex language, complicated terms, unclear speech, confusing words, academic style, formal jargon, heavy terminology, abstract wording, difficult language, professional slang, obscure expressions