* New words and phrases: New technologies, social trends, and cultural changes constantly introduce new words and phrases into the language. Think of "selfie," "influencer," or "cyberbullying."
* Changing meanings: The meanings of existing words can shift over time. "Cool" once meant "refreshing," now it implies "stylish."
* Grammar shifts: Grammatical rules evolve, sometimes subtly. We might see the rise of new tenses or changes in pronoun usage.
* Regional variations: Dialects within English continue to diverge and converge, influencing each other and the "standard" language.
* Global influence: As English is a global language, influences from other languages will continue to be absorbed, enriching its vocabulary and structure.
Examples of Evolution:
* Old English (450-1150): Considerably different from modern English, with a heavy Germanic influence.
* Middle English (1150-1500): A blend of Old English and Norman French, influencing vocabulary and grammar.
* Early Modern English (1500-1800): More familiar to us, with the emergence of standardized spelling and grammar.
While the core of the English language will likely remain, its specific expression and usage will continue to change and evolve. This dynamism is a hallmark of language and makes it a fascinating living entity.