Unsuspecting French Borrowing: How Americans Regularly Use French Words Without Knowing

Did you ever stop to think about the French words that make their way into your daily English vocabulary? The answer might surprise you. Whether it is from the beloved dishes we enjoy, the political terms we use in governance, or the environmental terms we discuss, French has left an indelible mark on the English language.

Slipping into English: French Words Everywhere

So, why does this happen? It all dates back to a period of language borrowing during the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. The Normans, originally Viking raiders from Normandy in what is now northern France, conquered England and brought French with them. Over the centuries, a significant number of French words entered the English language, often through the courts and upper echelons of society, and became a part of everyday usage.

Take, for instance, the word piscine. While it may sound distinctly French to the unsuspecting ear, it has its origins in the Latin word pipiscīna, meaning a swimming pool. In practical use, you might hear it in context such as in a discussion about the local[1] community leisure center.

Hidden in Plain Sight: Recognizing French Words in English

There are many more such words in the English lexicon. Consider the word danger, which comes from the French dangereux, meaning dangerous. In English, the term is used to indicate a potential risk or hazard, such as when discussing a safety hazard at work[2].

Similarly, the term environment originates from the French environnements, meaning surroundings. This word is frequently used in discussions about climate change and sustainable living. Another example is change, derived from the French changer. Whether discussing personal transformations or corporate restructuring, change is a ubiquitous term in English.

The term approach comes from the French approche, which means to come near or approach. This word is commonly used in both personal interactions and professional contexts. For example, a manager might encourage their team to approach new projects with a fresh perspective.

The Latin Connection: Endings and Etymology

Interestingly, many English words that end in -tion, such as information, option, and education, have their origins in Latin. However, English maintains the French ending -tion rather than the -io, -o, or -us endings used in other Latin languages. This is particularly true for nouns that can be traced back to French.

For instance, environment comes from the Latin envicirare, meaning to encircle. Similarly, change is derived from changier, a French term for transforming. The preservation of the French ending in English demonstrates the lasting impact of Norman French on the language.

Germanic Roots: A Blend of Languages

While much of the language borrowed from French has Latin roots, it is important to note that not all terms are derived from Latin. Some words actually have their origins in Germanic languages, particularly Frankish, another Germanic language. This linguistic blend is a reflection of the complex history of language and culture in Europe.

Consider the term easy, which comes from the Old French esais, meaning without effort. In modern English, it is used to describe a task or activity that does not require much difficulty. Another example is pray, which arises from the Old French preier, meaning to ask for something. In common usage today, the word refers to the act of seeking help or comfort from a higher power.

The term mayor is another interesting example. It originates from the Old French maire, meaning chief or headman. In modern English, the term refers to the administrative head of a city or town, serving to oversee its governance and operations.

Conclusion: A Multilingual Society

As evidenced by these examples, French has left a profound imprint on the English language. From everyday vocabulary to specialized terms and political jargon, French influence is pervasive. It is a testament to the rich history and cultural exchanges that have shaped the English language over the centuries.

Next time you use a word like carrot or cream, take a moment to appreciate the linguistic heritage that lies behind it. Understanding these connections can offer new insights into the evolution of languages and the interconnectedness of cultures.

[1] Reference to local community leisure center

[2] Reference to workplace safety discussion