Maritime English – What Does It Communicate?

Abstract

Maritime English is said to be a product of life on the ocean itself. It may be considered as the cradle of what is nowadays known as a type of ESP for the purposes of maritime communications. This paper presents an account of the rise of Maritime English as a type of ESP. It deals with the characteristics of ESP and how well Maritime English fits into the frame. Furthermore, the reciprocating influences of General English and Maritime English are presented and examples of both are provided to illustrate the vivid interaction between the two. Finally, an attempt is made to view the future development of Maritime English as based on the present-day conditions and future requirements.