Dominant and endangered languages: the future of world languages

Abstract

Human communication and cultural identity depend heavily on languages. Due to historical, economic, and technological circumstances, some languages become more dominant worldwide, while others are in danger of being extinct. This essay examines the factors that contribute to linguistic dominance and endangerment, emphasizing the effects of media, education, and globalization. It also talks about the significance of preserving linguistic diversity and initiatives to save endangered languages.

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Numonova, R. (2025). Dominant and endangered languages: the future of world languages. Innovations in Modern Linguistics and Language Teaching, 1(1), 236–238. https://doi.org/10.47689/ZTTCTOI-vol1-iss1-pp236-238
Ruhshona Numonova, Jizzakh State Pedagogical University
Student
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Abstract

Human communication and cultural identity depend heavily on languages. Due to historical, economic, and technological circumstances, some languages become more dominant worldwide, while others are in danger of being extinct. This essay examines the factors that contribute to linguistic dominance and endangerment, emphasizing the effects of media, education, and globalization. It also talks about the significance of preserving linguistic diversity and initiatives to save endangered languages.


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DOMINANT AND ENDANGERED LANGUAGES: THE FUTURE OF WORLD

LANGUAGES

Numonova Ruhshona Golib kizi,

Student of Jizzakh State Pedagogical University

Abstract:

Human communication and cultural identity depend heavily on languages. Due to

historical, economic, and technological circumstances, some languages become more dominant
worldwide, while others are in danger of being extinct. This essay examines the factors that
contribute to linguistic dominance and endangerment, emphasizing the effects of media, education,
and globalization. It also talks about the significance of preserving linguistic diversity and
initiatives to save endangered languages.

Keywords:

globalization, linguistic variety, endangered languages, language supremacy, and

language preservation.

A vital component of human identity, communication, and culture is language. But the

world's linguistic environment is always changing, with some languages becoming more and more
well-known worldwide while others are going extinct. Understanding the elements that lead to
language dominance and endangerment is essential as migration, globalization, and technology
change how people communicate.

A literature review of scholarly papers, UNESCO reports, and case studies on language

preservation programs are included in this work, which is based on qualitative research such as
these. Data from linguistic databases, government policies, and technological advancements are
analyzed to provide insights into the current trends in language dominance and endangerment.
Expert interviews and surveys from linguists also contribute to the findings.
Dominant Languages:

The Global Giants Certain languages have risen to dominance due to historical, economic,

and political factors.

42

Today, languages such as English, Mandarin Chinese, Spanish, and Arabic

are spoken by millions, with English serving as the primary global lingua franca. The dominance
of these languages can be attributed to:
1. Colonial History: Languages like English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese were extensively
spoken around the world as a result of European colonialism.
2. Economic Power: Nations with robust economies have an impact on international
communication. For example, business, technology, and international trade are all linked to
English.
3. Media and Technology: English, Mandarin, and Spanish are widely used in the internet,
entertainment sector, and social media, which further solidifies their position.
4. Science and Education: A large number of research institutes and universities publish scholarly
works in widely used languages, highlighting their significance on a worldwide scale.
5. Diplomatic and Political Influence: Dominant languages are the official language of
international organizations like the European Union and the United Nations.

42

Ethnologue. (2022). “Summary by Language”, Size SIL International


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237

A Cultural Departure: Endangered Languages Thousands other languages, on the other

hand, are in danger of being extinct. Nearly 40% of the world's languages are endangered,
according to UNESCO.

43

Among

the

main

causes

of

language

endangerment

are:

44

1. Globalization: In search of greater social and economic possibilities, individuals migrate to
major

economic

hubs

and

take

up

dominant

languages.

2. Lack of Intergenerational Transmission: Native speakers are dwindling as a result of many
indigenous

languages

not

being

transmitted

to

future

generations.

3. Government Policies: Some countries marginalize regional or indigenous languages in favor of
official

languages

in

government

and

education.

4. Cultural Assimilation: Speakers of minority languages may experience pressure to give up their
native tongues in order to fit in with dominant cultures.

45

5. Technological Barriers: It is challenging to incorporate endangered languages into
contemporary communication systems as many of them do not have a significant web presence.

Technology's Impact on Linguistic Change Language use is significantly shaped by

technology. Artificial intelligence, digital communication, and social media all have an impact on
how individuals use languages. Smaller languages find it difficult to keep up with technological
improvements, whereas dominant languages profit. Nonetheless, programs like voice recognition
software, online dictionaries, and language-learning applications provide chances to save
endangered languages. Social and Economic Aspects The impact of economic growth on language
survival is substantial. Languages that provide more social mobility and employment opportunities
tend to attract more speakers. Indigenous tongues are therefore in decline as a result of rural
communities frequently relocating to cities and assimilating into dominant languages.

To preserve language while sustaining economic growth, governments and educational

institutions must enact multilingual policies. Interventions in Culture and Education Linguistic
diversity is impacted by language regulations in educational institutions. To promote minority
languages, certain nations have put in place bilingual or multilingual education initiatives. For
example, speakers of English and French may cohabit in Canada as both languages are recognized
as official languages. Wales has also been successful in reviving the Welsh language through
cultural promotion and educational curriculum. Native language education initiatives have also
been launched by indigenous populations in Asia and South America.Endangered Language
Preservation Efforts Despite the fact that many languages are endangered, attempts are being
undertaken to conserve and revive them:

1. Education Programs: Native languages are being included in the curricula of colleges

and institutions.

2. Digital Resources: Language learning platforms, smartphone applications, and online

dictionaries aid in the documentation and instruction of endangered languages.

3. Government and Community Initiatives: Programs for language preservation may

receive financial support and legal recognition from some governments.

43

UNESCO. (2021). “Atlas of the World’s Languages in Danger”, Retrieved from https://www.unesco.org

44

Crystal, D. (2000). “Language Death”, Cambridge University Press

45

Nettle, D., & Romaine, S. (2000). “Vanishing Voices: The Extinction of the World's Languages”, Oxford

University Press


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238

4. Cultural Celebrations: People are inspired to be proud of their own languages when

traditional

literature,

art,

and

festivals

are

promoted.

5. Language Documentation: To preserve endangered languages for future generations, linguists
and scholars document and preserve them.

46

Prospects & Forecasts for the Future International politics, global migration trends, and

artificial intelligence will all have an impact on the future of world languages. Some analysts
contend that languages like Mandarin, Spanish, and Hindi will become increasingly influential,
while others anticipate that English will continue to dominate international communication.
Furthermore, improvements in AI and translation technologies could promote more multilingual
communication and lessen the dominance of a single language. The survival of world languages
hinges on striking a balance between conserving endangered languages to preserve cultural variety
and adopting dominant languages for international communication. Although language trends are
still being shaped by globalization and technological progress, concerted measures are required to
prevent the loss of linguistic heritage. A more inclusive and culturally diverse global society can
be achieved by promoting multilingualism and aiding in the preservation of endangered languages.

References

1. Crystal, D. (2000). “Language Death”, Cambridge University Press.
2. Ethnologue. (2022). “Summary by Language”, Size SIL International.
3. Nettle, D., & Romaine, S. (2000). “Vanishing Voices: The Extinction of the World's
Languages”, Oxford University Press.
4. UNESCO. (2021). “Atlas of the World’s Languages in Danger”, Retrieved from
https://www.unesco.org
5. Austin, P., & Sallabank, J. (2011). “The Cambridge Handbook of Endangered Languages”,
Cambridge University Press.

THE VOICE OF KARAKALPAK POETS: A BRIDGE BETWEEN TRADITION AND

MODERNITY

Nurillaeva Shakhnoza Zaripbay qizi, Student of KSU

Scientific advisor: Elza Erimbetova

Abstract:

The Karakalpak people, a Turkic-speaking ethnic group in Central Asia, have a rich

literary tradition deeply rooted in their history, culture, and connection to nature. Karakalpak
poetry, an essential part of their identity, reflects the community's struggles, aspirations, and
spiritual journey. From ancient oral epics to contemporary compositions, Karakalpak poets have
preserved and transformed their heritage while addressing modern challenges. This article delves
into the evolution of Karakalpak poetry, its cultural significance, and the enduring legacy of its
poets.

Keywords:

Karakalpak poet, renowned and modern literature, culture, lyrics, evolution.

46

Austin, P., & Sallabank, J. (2011). “The Cambridge Handbook of Endangered Languages”, Cambridge University

Press.

References

Crystal. D. (2000). “Language Death”, Cambridge University Press.

Ethnologue. (2022). “Summary by Language”, Size SIL International.

Nettle, D., & Romaine, S. (2000). “Vanishing Voices: The Extinction of the World's Languages”, Oxford University Press.

UNESCO. (2021). “Atlas of the World’s Languages in Danger”, Retrieved from https://www.unesco.org

Austin, P., & Sallabank, J. (2011). “The Cambridge Handbook of Endangered Languages”, Cambridge University Press.