How long has English been spoken?

It's impossible to give a precise date for when English began, as languages evolve gradually over time. However, linguists generally agree that Old English, the earliest recognizable form of the language, emerged around the 5th century AD.

Here's a breakdown:

* Proto-Germanic: The ancestor of English, Proto-Germanic, existed around the 5th century BC.

* Old English (c. 450-1150 AD): This period saw the arrival of Germanic tribes in Britain, bringing their languages. Old English was influenced by Old Norse and developed its own unique grammar and vocabulary.

* Middle English (c. 1150-1500 AD): The Norman Conquest in 1066 brought French influences, transforming Old English into Middle English.

* Early Modern English (c. 1500-1800 AD): This period saw the standardization of English, thanks to the printing press and the works of William Shakespeare.

* Modern English (c. 1800-present): Modern English continues to evolve, influenced by global communication and technology.

So, while English as we know it today is relatively young, its roots go back over 1,500 years.