"FROM COGNATES TO CONTRASTS: UNDERSTANDING THE VOCABULARY OF ENGLISH AND GERMAN"

Abstract

This study explores the complex link between German and English, emphasizing how their vocabularies have changed over time and their shared Germanic ancestry. It emphasizes the linguistic parallels and divergences that form the two languages, especially through the ideas of cognates—words with a similar origin—and contrasts—words that seem alike but have different meanings or applications. It is a useful tool for anyone interested in language learning, comparative linguistics, or the evolution of the English and German languages throughout time. It emphasizes how knowledge of cognates and contrasts can enhance our ability to communicate and improve our grasp of both languages, especially when it comes to translation and language learning.