When Did We Start Using Contractions in the English Language?

Contractions are a common feature of the English language, but when did they first start being used? The short answer is that contractions have been a part of English for a very long time, but their usage has evolved over the centuries.

The earliest known contractions in English date back to Middle English, which was spoken between the 11th and 15th centuries. During this time, contractions were primarily used in writing, and they were often indicated by an apostrophe. For example, instead of writing « do not » or « cannot, » writers would use « do`not » or « can`t. »

As the English language continued to evolve, contractions became more common in everyday speech. By the 18th century, contractions were a regular part of spoken English, but they were still not widely used in writing. It wasn`t until the 19th century that contractions became more accepted in written English, thanks in part to the influence of writers like Charles Dickens.

Today, contractions are a standard feature of English, and they are used in both spoken and written language. In fact, avoiding contractions can make writing sound stilted and formal, which is why many modern style guides encourage the use of contractions.

So why do we use contractions in English? The answer is simple: they make language more efficient. Instead of saying « I am going to the store, » we can say « I`m going to the store. » This not only saves time but also adds a more conversational and informal tone to the language.

However, it`s important to note that not all contractions are appropriate in all contexts. In formal writing or situations, it`s best to avoid contractions and use the full form of the word instead. For example, instead of writing « It`s been a pleasure to meet you, » it would be more appropriate to write « It has been a pleasure to meet you. »

In conclusion, contractions have been a part of English for centuries, and they continue to be a standard feature of the language today. While their usage has evolved over time, they remain an important tool for making language more efficient and conversational. However, it`s important to use contractions appropriately and consider the context in which they are being used.