How many French words in English?
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| Vocabulary estimates vary according to criteria, e.g., whether derivatives are included |
French and English differ fundamentally in grammar, structure, and syntax. Despite this incompatibility, English has a substantial percentage of French loanwords.
Nearly 30% of all English words come directly or indirectly from French.
All English speakers understand at least some French words, even if they do not recognise the original pronunciation.
The average native speaker will automatically recognise around 1500 French words in written form— without needing to consult a dictionary. This figure expands to around 30% of French loanwords when a looser linguistic connection is included.
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