LINK LANGUAGE

Concise Oxford Companion to the English Language | 1998 | 525 words | Copyright

LINK LANGUAGE. A semi-technical term for a language that allows communication between groups with no other common language: for example, HINDI in India, SWAHILI in East Africa. It may or may not be seen as neutral in relation to other languages used in a particular place. English serves as a link language in most of Africa and Asia: ‘English is needed as a link language between the Indian states, and between the union government and the states’ ( Nayantara Sahgal, South, Aug. 1985). Compare LINGUA FRANCA.

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TOM McARTHUR. "LINK LANGUAGE." Concise Oxford Companion to the English Language. 1998. Encyclopedia.com. 29 May. 2012 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>.

TOM McARTHUR. "LINK LANGUAGE." Concise Oxford Companion to the English Language. 1998. Encyclopedia.com. (May 29, 2012). http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O29-LINKLANGUAGE.html

TOM McARTHUR. "LINK LANGUAGE." Concise Oxford Companion to the English Language. 1998. Retrieved May 29, 2012 from Encyclopedia.com: http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O29-LINKLANGUAGE.html

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