World Englishes and applied linguistics: Theoretical and applied perspectives

Abstract This article examines the evolving relationship between world Englishes (WE) and applied linguistics (AL), tracing AL's historical development from its Anglo‐American origins in the mid‐20th century, grounded in “linguistics applied” to its contemporary status as a multidisciplinary field concerned with social justice and equity. It highlights the influential “world Englishes turn” initiated by Braj Kachru, which challenged monomodel views of English, critiqued traditional second language acquisition theories, and emphasized sociolinguistic realities and social responsibility. It concludes by highlighting world Englishes lasting impact on applied linguistics while advocating a balanced approach to debates and discussions which accommodate both negative and positive views on “the agony and ecstasy” of world Englishes.