When I first settled in the Netherlands, I had to keep in mind whether what I was writing should be in UK English or American English. Nowadays we have a third English to take into account: Euro English, the language of how UK English has evolved in Continental Europe.
Although the first language of many cross-border institutions and companies, English is, of course, a second language for many EU citizens. It makes sense, therefore, that word usage is simplified to enable everyone to
follow what is said or written. But slowly a language adapts over time.
Take the example of how the British adapted the French language since 1066. Well except a few cliché’s, such as, well, cliché. Or perhaps wishing each other an enjoyable meal – Which has always made me wonder if the English didn’t enjoy their meals before the French colonised them and taught them to say bon appetit…
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