Odd Features:
* Spelling: English spelling is notoriously inconsistent and difficult. Words that sound similar can be spelled very differently (e.g., "though," "thought," "through"), and words that are spelled similarly can sound very different (e.g., "read" as a past tense verb and "read" as a present tense verb).
* Pronounciation: The way English words are pronounced can be highly unpredictable, especially for learners. There are many silent letters, and the same letter combinations can be pronounced differently in different words (e.g., "ough" in "though," "through," and "rough").
* Grammar: English grammar can be quite complicated, with a wide array of tenses, verb forms, and word order rules. The use of articles (a, an, the) is another source of confusion for many learners.
* Idioms and Slang: English is rich in idioms and slang, which can be difficult to understand for non-native speakers. The meaning of these phrases often doesn't make sense based on the literal meaning of the words.
Peculiar Origins:
* History: English has been influenced by many other languages over its history, including Old Norse, French, and Latin. This has resulted in a language with a diverse vocabulary and complex grammar.
* Borrowing: English continues to borrow words from other languages, making it a constantly evolving language.
Fascinating Features:
* Flexibility: English has a large vocabulary and a flexible grammar, allowing for a wide range of expression.
* Global Language: English is the most widely spoken language in the world, and this has led to a global spread of its influence and culture.
Ultimately, the "oddness" and "peculiarity" of English are part of what makes it so fascinating and challenging. Its inconsistencies and complexities can be frustrating for learners, but they also contribute to its richness and dynamism.