1. Language: This is the most common meaning. English is a West Germanic language that originated in England and is now spoken by millions worldwide. It's a global language, used for communication in many different areas like business, science, and diplomacy.
2. Nationality: English refers to someone who is from England, a country in the United Kingdom.
3. Adjective: "English" can be used as an adjective to describe something related to England, its people, or its language. For example:
* English literature refers to literature written in the English language.
* English breakfast is a traditional meal commonly eaten in England.
* English garden is a style of garden design popular in England.
4. Proper noun: When referring to a specific person or place, "English" is often used as a proper noun. For example:
* The English Queen refers to the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom.
* The English Channel is a body of water between England and France.
To understand the meaning of "English," consider the context in which it is used.