World Englishes, Native Speakers and English Language Teaching

Abstract

As the global lingua franca and a dominant medium of trade, communication, education, and cultural exchange, English has evolved through centuries of interaction with diverse peoples, societies, and historical forces. Its widespread adoption across regions has led to the emergence of multiple varieties, collectively referred to as World Englishes, reflecting the language’s dynamic and adaptive nature. This article examines the changing character and functions of English through two key lenses: the paradigm of World Englishes and the concept of the native speaker. It traces the development of World Englishes and critically engages with the native versus non-native speaker debate, highlighting the limitations of traditional frameworks. The discussion proposes a more fluid and contemporary understanding of English that acknowledges the realities of globalisation, digital communication, and translingual practices. While existing models remain valuable, they require revision to accommodate evolving linguistic landscapes and the increasingly diverse ways in which English is used and negotiated in the twenty-first century.