* Modern languages: Old English developed before the rise of most modern languages, including French, Spanish, German, and Italian.
* Languages with limited contact: While Old English was influenced by Latin, there's little evidence of direct influence from languages like Greek, Arabic, or Farsi, which had limited contact with Anglo-Saxon culture.
* Languages with no known contact: It's highly unlikely that Old English was influenced by languages from the Americas, Asia, or Africa, as there was no significant interaction with those regions during the relevant period.
However, it's important to remember that language evolution is a complex process. It's possible that unknown or minor influences from various languages may have contributed to the development of Old English, even if they are not readily identifiable.
Here are some key languages that did influence Old English:
* Proto-Germanic: This is the ancestor of all Germanic languages, including Old English. It provided the foundation for the language's grammar, vocabulary, and sound system.
* Latin: Latin, the language of the Roman Empire, influenced Old English through cultural and religious exchange. Latin loanwords were introduced, and Latin grammatical structures sometimes influenced Old English.
* Old Norse: The Vikings, who raided and settled in England, brought with them Old Norse words and phrases, which enriched the vocabulary of Old English.
Ultimately, pinpointing languages that *didn't* influence Old English is challenging. The language was a complex blend of influences, and the precise extent of each influence is still debated by linguists.