In an increasingly globalized world, English has become the dominant international language in business, science, and popular culture. But while many countries embrace this trend, France stands out for actively defending its language from English influence. This cultural and linguistic resistance is deeply rooted in history, identity, and national pride.

1. Cultural Identity and National Pride

The French language is more than just a means of communication—it’s a symbol of French culture and identity. For centuries, France has seen its language as a representation of intellectual and artistic achievement. The idea of replacing French terms with English ones feels, to many, like eroding a key part of their heritage.

Example: Instead of using the English term “email,” the French government promotes courriel (short for courrier électronique). Similarly, ordinateur is used for “computer.”

2. Official Language Policies

France has official language protection laws, such as the Toubon Law (1994), which requires the use of French in government publications, advertisements, and workplaces. This law was created to limit the growing use of English in media and commerce.

Example: Fast food chains in France are encouraged to say menu à emporter instead of “take-away menu.”

3. The Role of the Académie Française

The Académie Française, founded in 1635, is responsible for preserving the purity of the French language. It regularly publishes recommendations for replacing English loanwords with French alternatives.

Example: Instead of “hashtag,” the Académie recommends mot-dièse.

4. Comparison With Other Countries

While France defends its language, other countries take different approaches:

• Germany: English influence is widespread in business and technology. Terms like das Handy (mobile phone) and downloaden are common.
• Spain: The Royal Spanish Academy occasionally offers alternatives but is less strict. English terms like marketing or influencer are often used without translation.
• Latvia: There are state efforts to keep Latvian terminology alive, such as using elektroniskais pasts for “email,” but English still seeps into youth culture and tech.

5. Why It Matters

Language reflects how we think and live. For the French, resisting English isn’t about isolation—it’s about maintaining a unique voice in a multilingual world. While some find this protective stance outdated, others view it as a powerful reminder that languages need care and intention to survive.

In language learning, understanding such cultural attitudes can help learners appreciate not only the vocabulary but also the values behind a language.