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Probably not the place to ask but why does U always follow Q in the English language?
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QI IS A WORD
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i heard something about all the french influences on the english language,might be something to do with that?
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The reason we use "qu" relates to Latin, but also to the Norman French, who conquered England in 1066. In addition to ruling the land, they also changed the spelling of English to suit them better. Previously, "kw" sounds were not spelled with "qu"; in fact, most of them were actually spelled "cw". (For example, the word queen was often spelled "cwén"). Since the letter "w" is essentially an invention of the Germanic language speakers, the Normans found it confusing and barbaric. In addition, though, many words with "qu" are loan words from French or Latin anyway, so the spelling was inherited along with it. Also, it's worth mentioning that even within English, "qu" represents many different sounds; for example "kw", "k" (as in plaque), etc.
As for why q is always written with a u in Latin itself, I'm not exactly sure. The "u" part is actually the easiest to understand, as its pronunciation approximates the glide sound that "w" represents in the "kw" cluster. What's harder to understand is why Latin chose to have 2 separate symbols for the "k" sound (the other is c; they never used "k"). It's also amusing that English adopted all 3 symbols (q, c, and k). One of those accidents of history, I guess. [googled, naturally] |
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I knew this one had no U.
http://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/objects/plastics_and_modern_materials/1985-1568.aspx |
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Qantas !!
Australian of course however no U after the Q |
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I would've pronouced SQEZY as SCEASY
Qatar doesn't have a U as well |
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Qantas !!
Australian of course however no U after the Q Thats because Qantas stands for Queensland And Northern Territories Airline Service. |
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LOL Willie :|
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"Qatar doesnt have a U as well". Correct, and this may explain why about 10,000 racehorses with arabic names with a q in the name dont have a U after the Q either.
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