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Science 27 February 2004:
Vol. 303. no. 5662, pp. 1329 - 1331
DOI: 10.1126/science.1096546
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Viewpoint

The Future of Language

David Graddol*

The world's language system is undergoing rapid change because of demographic trends, new technology, and international communication. These changes will affect both written and spoken communication. English may not be the dominant language of the future, and the need to be multilingual will be enhanced. Although many languages are going extinct, new ones are emerging in cities and extended social groups.

The English Company (UK) Ltd., 2 Western Road, Wolverton, Milton Keynes, MK12 5AF, UK.

* To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail: david{at}english.co.uk

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Science. ISSN 0036-8075 (print), 1095-9203 (online)