The English Language

Have you ever wondered just how expansive the English language truly is? The question of how many words exist in English is a fascinating exploration into the richness and diversity of our language. While it's challenging to pinpoint an exact number, estimates provide us with a glimpse into the immense lexicon that English speakers have at their disposal.

In 2022 the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) listed over 170,000 words in current use, with an additional 47,000 obsolete words and around 9,500 derivative words. However, these numbers are constantly evolving as new words are coined, and others fade into disuse. Some linguists believe that the total number of English words, including technical terms and jargon, may exceed a million!

The dynamic nature of English, influenced by cultural shifts, technological advancements, and global interactions, contributes to the continuous expansion of its vocabulary. New words are added to the dictionary each year, reflecting the evolving nature of our society and the need for language to adapt.

Exploring the vast vocabulary of English can be both exhilarating and daunting. It opens doors to expression, creativity, and communication, but it also presents the challenge of keeping up with the ever-growing lexicon. For English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners, this linguistic richness provides an exciting journey of discovery and mastery.

The Language called Globish