1. What language(s) is English most closely related to in its early development?

French: has enormous impact on English, which is considered as the most prestigious language variety. It is interesting that French words were introduced to denote the meat from certain animals, whereas the names of the animals remained English: pork from pigs, mutton from sheep. The influence has also made itself noticeable in certain grammatical and the placement of stress in French-based words: canal, hotel, antique

Latin: pervasive influence on English. Latin influence made itself noticeable in many spheres. Firstly, all the words pertaining to the Church were introduced: candle, school, master, grammatical. Secondly, name of articles of clothing & household utensils & foods: sock, sack, cap. Thirdly, new names for tree & plants & herbs: pine, lily, fennel. The Latin element has been integrated into the English system-word formation

Scandinavian: Although not as massive as that of Latin or French, the Scandinavian

influence has been substantial, affected many everyday words. The very pronunciation of the

k's and g's in the following words, fricatives, is a sign of Scandinavian origin: sky, book,

whisk, skirt.