English in Bangladesh and Linguistic Imperialism: Emergence of World Englishes

Abstract

Based on English linguistic imperialism and World Englishes, this study scrutinises the contested status of English in Bangladesh. It has two aims: (1) to examine how English functions in postcolonial educational policies, institutions, and social practices, and (2) to analyse attitudes towards Bangladeshi English (BdE), focusing on phonetics. Although English is held in high esteem, its sociolinguistic influence, economic legitimacy, impact on national identity, and the development of local varieties in Bangladesh remain under-researched. This study explores whether English enables integration and mobility or perpetuates colonial hegemony. Simultaneously, linguistic resistance is traced, and the development status of BdE as an independent variety is assessed. A mixed-method design with a critical-constructivist and realist approach was chosen. Qualitative data included focus group discussions with university students (n = 100) and semi-structured interviews with teachers (n = 20), which were thematically analysed. Quantitative data included surveys of students and teachers (n = 120) and acoustic recordings (n = 10), which were statistically and phonetically analysed. The results show a tension between the imposed linguistic hierarchies and evolving diversity. Policies reproduce postcolonial, neoliberal ideologies that associate English with power and shape practice while undermining linguistic equity and epistemic sovereignty. The participants demonstrated a critical awareness of dislocation and injustice. The recognition of BdE shows a move towards a systematic variety characterised by Bengali phonology. Acoustic analysis documents a restructured vowel inventory, consistent rhoticity, and L1-influenced consonantal shifts. The study demonstrates the persistent marginalisation of Bengali, which points to political failure and internalised colonialism. This paper recommends inclusive language policies, pedagogical pluralism, and investment in knowledge production in Bengali to promote epistemic justice and more equitable development.