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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. A trend seen on both sides of the Atlantic is that of _________________________.
(a) restricting swear words in public
(b) whispering swear words in public
(c) punishing for swear words said in public
(d) fining for swear words written in public

2. English grammar rules are based on what?
(a) Latin
(b) Oxford University guidelines
(c) Old English
(d) Celtic

3. Why does the author feel it is difficult to trace the history of swearing?
(a) People are reluctant to talk about their swear words
(b) Countries do not want to be known for swearing
(c) People don't want their children exposed to it
(d) Swear words are primarily spoken, not written down

4. The English language is left to ___________ and public figures.
(a) entertainment
(b) anthropologists
(c) academic
(d) scientific

5. What are the risks of being unaware of international translations of company names and messages?
(a) Being perceived as too expensive
(b) Targeting the wrong prospects
(c) Being misunderstood
(d) Being negative or offensive

Short Answer Questions

1. What type of names go through an adaptive period to reach worldwide markets?

2. What is another characteristic of spoken swear words?

3. In what countries is English studied?

4. Why does the author think it is difficult to trace the history of language using only written records?

5. What occurs when English speaking world leaders are forced to rely on translators?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the challenge of determining the actual number of words in the English language?

2. What does the author state as one of the oldest English language dictionaries?

3. Name some less common word games.

4. What is the source of many swear words throughout history?

5. How is the pronunciation of place names indicative of how English speakers have changed over time?

6. One of the most interesting words created in North America was "O.K." What is the background behind this new word?

7. What is the author's final position on the future of the English language?

8. In addition to English, what other languages have been proposed as international languages?

9. What impact has American English had on the British vocabulary?

10. What were some of the transitions of the English language as it migrated to North America?

(see the answer keys)

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