Hybrid English words in Korean and Japanese: a strange brew or an asset for global English?

Abstract

This article discusses English-origin words used in Japan and Korea, which are either imported from English or coined in Japanese/Korean. Many imported English words develop different meanings in Korean/Japanese, while coined words have unique meanings within those languages. Although English-origin words are called loanwords, the diversity of genesis requires a new terminology to better describe their nature: (i) first-generation English words; (ii) second-generation English words; (iii) global English words. This article aims: (i) to show how first-generation English words are reborn as local currency by developing new dimensions of meaning; (ii) to demonstrate how second-generation words are made, and become global English words, earning both local and global value; (iii) to rethink the impact of English as lingua franca on global word making. Finally, it argues that hybrid English words originating in Japanese/Korean are not a strange locally used brew, but a valuable asset for the future of global English.