English in Nepal

Abstract

AbstractThis paper presents a sociolinguistic profile of contemporary Nepal, with particular reference to the status and functions of English in Nepali society. Nepal has been said to belong to the Expanding Circle, as English has traditionally had no official status there, although the language has been playing significant economic, educational, and social roles in society, in similar fashion to an Outer Circle variety of English. The use of English has increasingly spread in various domains of society, including education. This paper begins by providing an overview of Nepal and its cultural, linguistic and social dynamics, and by discussing the history of English in Nepal from the 17th century to date. It then proceeds to discuss the users and uses of English in contemporary society, documenting how the interpersonal, instrumental, administrative, and creative/innovative functions, along with linguistic adaptation and innovation, are manifested in the society.