Discussing English and Welsh in everyday conversations

“When was the word ‘adferteisio’ used for the first time in Welsh: (a) 1974, (b) 1880 or (c) 1763?”

The answer to this question and several other interesting facts about the Welsh language and its relationship with English will be revealed in a discussion session on ”Cymraeg a Saesneg mewn sgyrsiau pob dydd” in Bangor University’s stand at the National Eisteddfod on Tuesday 2 August from 4.00 pm to 4.30 pm. Anyone who is interested is welcome to call in at the stand.

The session will give people an opportunity to learn about the history of the contact between the Welsh and English languages and have a look at bilingual conversations in Wales and in other bilingual communities in the world.

The programme includes a word quiz, a presentation by Dr Peredur Daviesand Professor Margaret Deuchar, an exhibition with examples from other bilingual communities, a question and answer session and an opportunity for an informal chat over a cup of tea.

Professor Margaret Deuchar, Director of the ESRC Centre for Research on Bilingualism at Bangor University, which is organising the event, said:

“Our session will be a unique opportunity to hear about the latest research we have conducted on bilingual conversation. The aim of our research is to examine how bilinguals use both their languages when they are chatting to each other.”

Publication date: 29 July 2011