* No Simple Calculation: Languages don't borrow in a clean, quantifiable way. Words can be adapted, blended, or have parts borrowed from different sources.
* Historical Fluctuation: The influence of French has waxed and waned over time. It was strongest after the Norman Conquest, but has continued to influence English vocabulary in various ways.
* Subtlety: Much of the impact of French is on grammar, syntax, and the way we express concepts, not just individual words.
Here's what we can say:
* Significant Influence: French has had a huge impact on English, particularly in vocabulary related to law, government, food, fashion, and the arts.
* Word Roots: Many English words share Latin and Greek roots with French words, making tracing direct influence tricky.
* Ongoing Evolution: English continues to absorb words from other languages, so the percentage of French influence is constantly shifting.
Instead of trying to quantify it, it's better to recognize that French is one of many vital contributors to the richness and complexity of the English language.