In 1986, The Economist compiled a list of English words that had gained widespread recognition across different languages and cultures. This collection included terms related to travel, leisure, and modern life, such as "airport," "hotel," and "telephone," as well as expressions like "O.K." and "no problem." These words reflect the influence of English on global communication and everyday vocabulary.

Bill Bryson's book, "The Mother Tongue: English and How it Got That Way," explores the evolution of the English language, highlighting its adaptability and the way it has absorbed various influences over time. The selected words illustrate how certain English terms have transcended their origins to become part of a universal lexicon, underlining the global prevalence of the English language.