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When it comes to identifying the second-largest English-speaking country in the world, there are several factors to consider, including the number of speakers, the status of English in the country, and the proficiency level among the population. While the United States is often considered the largest English-speaking country due to its population size and the global influence of American culture, the second position is a bit more complex to determine.
India has been making headlines with its claim to be the second-largest English-speaking country in the world. According to various sources, it is estimated that around 10% of India's population speaks English, which translates to approximately 125 million people. This number is indeed significant and places India in a strong position when it comes to the total count of English speakers.
However, it's important to note that the number of speakers alone does not necessarily make a country the "largest" or "second-largest" in terms of language proficiency or use. The proficiency level, the domains in which English is used (education, business, government, etc.), and the percentage of the population that speaks English as a first or second language are also critical factors.
India's English-speaking population is expected to grow substantially in the coming decade, potentially quadrupling the current estimate. This growth is attributed to various factors, including the country's strong presence in the fields of information technology, business process outsourcing, and a burgeoning economy that increasingly requires English for global communication and trade.
It's also worth mentioning that other countries like the Philippines and Nigeria also have a significant number of English speakers. The Philippines, for instance, has a high level of English proficiency due to its history as a U.S. colony and the widespread use of English in education and business. Nigeria, being the most populous country in Africa, also has a considerable number of English speakers, given that English is an official language and serves as a lingua franca among its diverse ethnic groups.
In conclusion, while India may currently hold the title of the second-largest English-speaking country by the sheer number of speakers, the landscape is dynamic and influenced by various socio-economic and political factors. The proficiency and use of English in different countries also play a significant role in determining the status of a country in terms of English language prevalence.

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India now claims to be the world's second-largest English-speaking country. The most reliable estimate is around 10% of its population or 125 million people, second only to the US and expected to quadruple in the next decade.Nov 27, 2012read more >>