Here's why English is often considered a "universal language":
* Global Communication: English is widely spoken in many countries, including many important economic and political centers. This makes it a common language for international communication in business, diplomacy, science, and technology.
* Education and Research: English is the primary language of education and research in many parts of the world. Many academic journals and scientific publications are written in English, making it essential for scholars to learn.
* Media and Entertainment: English dominates the global media landscape, with Hollywood films, music, and television shows enjoyed by billions worldwide. This exposure makes English a familiar language for many people.
* Technology and Internet: English is the primary language of the internet, with most websites and software interfaces designed in English. This makes it essential for accessing and using technology.
While Mandarin Chinese is spoken by more people, its usage is primarily confined to China and a few surrounding regions. It is less widely used for international communication and in other global spheres where English is dominant.
Therefore, "universal language" is more about global reach and influence rather than the number of native speakers. While Mandarin Chinese is important, English holds a dominant position in many global contexts, making it a truly "universal language" for now.
However, the language landscape is always changing. The increasing influence of other languages, especially Mandarin, will likely lead to a more diverse and multilingual world in the future.