Shakespeare’s Influence on Modern Language
At Hodis Music and Learning, we love helping students connect the dots between classic literature and modern life. And no one bridges that gap quite like Shakespeare. His plays, which continue to entertain audiences today, also helped shape the way we speak, write, and even think.
A Language Pioneer
William Shakespeare lived in the late 1500s and early 1600s, a time when the English language was still evolving. There were no standardized dictionaries or grammar rules, which gave Shakespeare the freedom to play with words. And play he did! It’s estimated that he introduced over 1,700 words to the English language, many of which we still use today. Words like:
- Astonishing
- Lonely
- Bedroom
- Gloomy
- Manager
- Critical
He also changed nouns into verbs, verbs into adjectives, and created entirely new expressions, many of which have become so common we don’t even realize they come from his pen.
Shakespearean Phrases You Probably Use
Have you ever said someone has “a heart of gold”? Or that something vanished “into thin air”? Those are just a couple of phrases that come straight from Shakespeare’s plays.
Here are a few more you might recognize:
- Break the ice – The Taming of the Shrew
- Wild-goose chase – Romeo and Juliet
- In a pickle – The Tempest
- Fair play – King John
- It’s Greek to me – Julius Caesar
These expressions have stood the test of time because they capture human emotions and experiences in a vivid, memorable way. That’s the magic of Shakespeare; he could take big ideas and make them feel personal.
Why This Matters for Students
Understanding Shakespeare’s influence helps students see language as a living, changing thing. It gives context to the words and phrases we use every day and builds appreciation for the power of storytelling.
Learning Shakespeare also strengthens:
- Vocabulary: Students encounter rich, descriptive language that enhances their own word choices.
- Critical thinking: His plays invite interpretation, debate, and analysis.
- Cultural literacy: Shakespeare’s work is referenced in books, movies, and even pop songs. Knowing it helps students connect to a broader world of ideas.
At HLM, we help students approach Shakespeare with confidence, not confusion. Whether we’re unpacking the themes of Macbeth or decoding a tricky soliloquy from Hamlet, our English tutors make classic literature feel accessible, relevant, and even fun.
Keeping Shakespeare Alive
Over 400 years later, Shakespeare’s fingerprints are still all over modern English. From everyday idioms to dramatic storytelling, his legacy continues to inspire readers, writers, and thinkers of all ages.
To Read or Not to Read?
At Hodis Learning and Music, we say: definitely read! When students explore Shakespeare, they’re not just reading old plays. They’re unlocking the roots of modern language, expanding their vocabulary, and learning how words can move people. Learn more about English tutoring here. If you’re ready to sign up for tutoring, call us at (626) 227-1149 or submit a contact form on our website.
