English Language Dominance Across the 20 Richest English-Speaking Countries
English has become the dominant language across the world, serving as a lingua franca for people with different native languages. The language has achieved this status by incorporating words from various dialects and prominent languages, allowing it to adapt and grow with modern developments.
The global significance of English is evident from the fact that it is recognized as an official or second language in 86 countries. The United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia have the highest number of native English speakers, making English a commonly spoken and understood language in these countries.
In Europe, while native languages are still prevalent, English is widely spoken in countries such as the United Kingdom, Greece, Denmark, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Spain. According to Wordspath, approximately 370 million out of the total 450 million population in Europe can speak English. This has led to the official recognition of English in countries like Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Ireland, Malta, and Poland.
Numerous companies worldwide are developing solutions to promote English language learning. Duolingo Inc., Rosetta Stone Inc., and Coursera, Inc. are among the companies facilitating language learning, including English. Duolingo, for example, offers a popular language-learning app that allows users to switch between learning languages, math, and music. Rosetta Stone provides corporate training in 24 languages, including English, to help insurance teams communicate effectively with multinational customers. Coursera offers a wide range of English-speaking courses for personal development and professional skills for individuals and corporate teams.
Now let’s take a look at the 20 richest countries that mainly speak English.
Our methodology for compiling this list involved considering the total wealth of each country rather than just GDP per capita or GNI. This approach takes into account factors such as the cost of living, access to quality education and healthcare, and social support systems that contribute to overall wealth.
Here are the 20 richest countries that mainly speak English:
20. Jamaica – Total Wealth: $45 Billion
Jamaica, where English is the official language, has a net worth of $45 billion as of 2021.
19. Cameroon – Total Wealth: $46 Billion
Cameroon predominantly speaks English, with Cameroon Pidgin English serving as a lingua franca. The country’s total wealth is approximately $46 billion.
18. Uganda – Total Wealth: $49 Billion
English is widely spoken and recognized in Uganda, influenced by indigenous languages. The country’s total wealth is around $49 billion.
17. Trinidad and Tobago – Total Wealth: $51 Billion
Trinidad and Tobago, where English is the official language, has a total national wealth of $51 billion.
16. Malta – Total Wealth: $58 Billion
Malta recognizes English as an official language, with 88% of the population able to speak English. The country’s net worth is $58 billion.
15. Zimbabwe – Total Wealth: $71 Billion
Zimbabwean English is widely spoken and used as the primary language in education, government, commerce, and media. The country’s net worth is $71 billion.
14. Tanzania – Total Wealth: $122 Billion
Tanzania recognizes English as an official language, and it is widely spoken as a lingua franca. The country’s total wealth is $122 billion.
13. Ghana – Total Wealth: $130 Billion
English serves as a lingua franca and the official language in Ghana. The country’s net worth is approximately $130 billion.
12. Kenya – Total Wealth: $369 Billion
Kenya recognizes English as an official language, and Kenyan English is spoken by many communities. The country’s net worth is $369 billion.
11. Nigeria – Total Wealth: $752 Billion
Nigeria is one of the English-speaking countries with a wide usage of English and official recognition. The country’s total wealth is $752 billion.
These countries showcase the influence and dominance of the English language in the richest nations worldwide. Companies like Duolingo, Rosetta Stone, and Coursera continue to play a significant role in promoting language learning, including English, across the globe.
