Genesis 42:39

Bible in Basic English (1941)

Now the land was in bitter need of food.

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About this Translation

Bible in Basic English

Dynamic EquivalenceBest for: English language learning (ESL/ELL)

🎯 Translation Approach

A simplified English translation that limits vocabulary to roughly 1,000 common words to maximize accessibility and clarity, often rephrasing idioms and complex constructions into plain, straightforward language.

Word-for-word

2/5

Readability

5/5

💎 Distinctive Features

Controlled vocabulary: Limits word choice to about 1,000 common English words for maximum accessibility.
Simplified idioms: Complex or culture-specific expressions are rephrased into plain, contemporary equivalents.
Uniform style: Uses consistent, neutral phrasing across books for predictable reading.
Designed for learners: Optimized for readers with limited English proficiency or developing literacy.
Historic plain-English edition: Originally published in 1941 as a simplified alternative to traditional translations.

✅ Strengths

Highly accessible for ESL readers and beginners
Consistent word choices improve predictability
Easy read-through of narrative and teaching texts
Good for reading aloud to children or new readers

⚠️ Considerations

Reduced nuance due to limited vocabulary
Some expressions may feel flat or simplified
Less suited for detailed doctrinal study
Dated (1941) word choices in places

👥 Who is this for?

Ideal for

English learners (ESL/ELL)
Children and young readers
First-time Bible readers
Readers seeking very simple English

Consider alternatives for

In-depth exegesis
Scholarly or advanced theological study
Readers seeking literary richness or original-language nuance

🔄 Compare with

NIVESVNASBCSBNRSV

Additional Resources