IngentaConnect English in Russia

Author: Ustinova, Irina P.

Source: World Englishes, Volume 24, Number 2, June 2005 , pp. 239-252(14)

Abstract:

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the role of English in Russia and outline its contemporary status and characteristics. Building on Kachru's (1992) three circles of world Englishes, the paper proposes that English in modern Russia is on the periphery of the Expanding Circle. Although English in Russia has the status of a foreign language with a restricted functional range, it has already expanded into educational, business, and cross-cultural domains. The paper characterizes the users of English and documents how the interpersonal, instrumental, and creative functions are manifested in particular settings. Types of English in Russia such as a Russianized version of Standard English, Reduced English, and Pigeon English are also described. The symbolic function of modernity and prestige is manifested in the use of English in advertising, commercials, and brand names. The study concludes by highlighting the need for additional research to further define this socio-cultural milieu of learning and the use of English in Russia.

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