Here you will get the detailed summary of IGNOU MEG 10 Block 4 – Different Englishes.
We have provided the summary of all units starting from unit 1 to unit 4.
Introduction
IGNOU MEG-10 Block 4 focuses on “Different Englishes”, a concept that explores the global diversity of the English language and its transformation in various cultural and regional contexts. This block specifically examines how English has evolved and adapted in post-independence India, giving rise to a distinct variety known as Indian English. Through its four units, the block looks at the historical evolution of English, the process of nativisation (i.e., the indigenization of English), the linguistic features that define Indian English, and its global intelligibility and recognition. It offers a linguistic and sociocultural analysis of how English, once a colonial import, has become a localized and legitimate medium of expression across the world.
Unit 1: Evolution of English
This unit traces the historical journey of the English language, from its early Germanic roots to its current status as a global lingua franca. English has undergone significant transformation over centuries—linguistically, geographically, and culturally. The unit outlines key stages such as:
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Old English, Middle English, and Modern English development.
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The impact of historical events like the Norman Conquest, which enriched English with French and Latin vocabulary.
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Colonial expansion, which spread English to Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
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The rise of World Englishes—distinct varieties of English shaped by regional cultures, identities, and contexts.
By the end of this unit, learners understand that English is not a monolithic language but a dynamic and evolving system that constantly interacts with local languages and societies.
Unit 2: Nativisation of English in Post-Independent India (Functions of English)
This unit explains how English in India has evolved from a colonial imposition to a localized linguistic system. Post-independence, English retained its relevance in administration, education, science, and media, and gradually acquired a new set of functions and meanings within Indian society.
Highlights include:
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The dual role of English: as a bridge language among India’s diverse linguistic groups and as a tool for global engagement.
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The symbolic capital of English, associated with upward mobility and elite access.
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The concept of nativisation: Indian English began to absorb local expressions, idioms, and cultural references, becoming more rooted in the Indian context.
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The distinction between Standard British English and Indian English in terms of usage, style, and cultural connotation.
This unit emphasizes that English in India is no longer ‘foreign’—it is Indian in character, serving both functional and expressive needs.
Unit 3: Nativisation of English Discourse – Syntax, Morphology, Phonology
This unit offers a linguistic analysis of Indian English, focusing on how its grammar (syntax), word formation (morphology), and pronunciation (phonology) differ from British or American English.
Key points include:
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Syntax: Indian English often reflects sentence structures influenced by native languages (e.g., use of present continuous, direct word order, and honorific constructions).
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Morphology: Creative word formation is common, such as adding suffixes (“time-pass”, “prepone”), or using hybrid expressions combining English with Indian languages.
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Phonology: Indian English pronunciation varies across regions, but often shows features like non-aspirated consonants, syllable-timed rhythm (as opposed to stress-timed), and lack of distinction between certain sounds (e.g., /v/ and /w/).
This unit shows how Indian English is systematic and rule-governed, though shaped by local languages. It challenges the idea that deviation from British norms is “incorrect,” instead framing it as linguistic innovation.
Unit 4: Intelligibility of Indian English Globally
The final unit discusses the global status of Indian English—how it is perceived and understood outside India. It explores the issue of intelligibility, which refers to how easily Indian English is comprehended by speakers of other English varieties.
Important themes:
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The accent barrier, which can affect communication but is increasingly being accepted in global workplaces.
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Code-mixing and culture-specific references, which may require explanation when addressing international audiences.
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The growing legitimacy of Indian English in literature, academic discourse, and professional communication.
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Indian English writers like Salman Rushdie, Arundhati Roy, and Amitav Ghosh, who have helped Indianize the global literary canon.
The unit concludes by affirming that Indian English is a legitimate and respected variety, capable of conveying local and global realities with clarity and richness.