Historical Background and Sociology of English as Lingua Franca in Azerbaijan

. The article researches the history and sociological substantiation of ELF (English as Lingua Franca) in Azerbaijan. The author indicates the unique historical role of mercantile activities in extending the borders of EFL. It is also stated that the English language would be on a narrow scale long before ELF was used in Azerbaijan. The paper argues that scientific and linguistic literature supports the idea that English as a Foreign Language (EFL) served as an extension for ELF usage. At the same time, some linguists make a controversial statement that the reason English is spreading around the world at the moment is because of its utility as a lingua franca. It also analyses the distinct stages of ELF use in Azerbaijan and illustrates the historical facts necessitating the vast in - country spread and usage of ELF. Following the in - depth analyses of ELF, the paper makes some new remarks: 1) There are at least two varieties of English and simplified (we may call it mere or simple English); 2) Global English existed long before English existed; 3) Until people speak English to their kids, it is usually called ELF; 4) ELF is more extensive; 5) Simple English is more intensive by its nature, and so on. The author argues that the content and concept of ELF's usage is more significant than the concept of simple or mere English usage because the former assumes much - embracing features rather than the "simple English choice". That means, unlike English, ELF has the following specific qualities: 1) It is not spontaneous but strictly purposeful