The influence of the English language on the Italian language with the consequent cultural implications

Abstract This dissertation explores the most distinctive aspects of the influence of American English on contemporary Italian, examining how lexical borrowings and adaptations shape today’s everyday communication. Adopting a sociolinguistic and cultural perspective, this study emphasizes the role of mass media and digital platforms in accelerating linguistic transfer and embedding new English expressions within Italian discourse. Special focus is given to the diffusion of terms from American popular culture — film, television, music, and social media — and to their impact on Italian linguistic practices and collective identity. The study also addresses tensions between linguistic purity and openness, analysing the different attitudes across generations and regions. Ultimately, it argues that English, as a global lingua franca, not only mirrors but also drives cultural change, from early borrowings to the digital age.