We are all familiar with what English is, but not many are familiar with it’s other cousin Anglish.
Anglish (also known as Pure English or Root English) is a variations of the English language with distinct characteristics. Anglish aims to use words of Germanic origin instead of loanwords from other languages, especially those of Latin and French origin.
Here’s a short comparison highlighting some noticeable differences:
Vocabulary
Most of us are taught in the learninghouse (school) that modern English is heavily influenced by French, through the Norman conquest, as well as Latin. During the age of enlightenment a number of words where ‘greekified’ or borrowed directly. Many other words have been borrowed since.
Anglish attempts to use words of Germanic origin as much as possible, avoiding loanwords from other languages.
Word Formation
English: English often creates new words through a combination of various roots and affixes, regardless of their linguistic origin.
Anglish: Anglish prioritizes creating new words using Germanic roots and affixes, avoiding or minimizing foreign affixes.
Phrasal Verbs:
English: Phrasal verbs are common in English, combining a verb and one or more particles (prepositions or adverbs) to convey various meanings.
Anglish: Anglish may opt for Germanic equivalents to phrasal verbs, prioritizing native constructions.
Grammar and Syntax:
English and Anglish share similar grammar and syntax structures, as they both belong to the same language family.
Some fun examples of Vocab Differences:
English word = Anglish Word
Dictionary = Wordbook
Telephone = Farspeaker
Television = Farseer
Photography = Lifesnap
School = Learninghouse
Sequel = Aftercoming
Fuse = Meld
In essence, Anglish is an attempt to return to a more purely Germanic vocabulary by replacing loanwords with native equivalents. However, its use is primarily limited to certain linguistic enthusiasts and creative projects rather than mainstream communication. There are a number of online wordbooks for you to continue your journey into the world of Anglish,