The French Influence on English Vocabulary

This chapter examines the rich influence of the French language on English vocabulary, revealing that nearly 30% of English words are of French origin. It explores the transformative impact of the Norman Conquest of 1066, highlighting how it led to significant vocabulary changes in law, arts, and cuisine, reflecting class distinctions in society. Additionally, it discusses the complex interplay between French and Latin contributions, illustrating how historical power dynamics shaped the evolution of the English language.