Bible in Basic English (BBE)

Overview, history, and usage notes for this Bible translation in Know The Bible.

First Published 1949

Language Simplified Modern English

Tradition Neutral / Educational

Editors / Translators Professor Samuel Henry Hooke

Reading Level Easy

Philosophy Simplified / restricted-vocabulary translation

Overview

Provides a Bible using a 1000-word basic English vocabulary.

The BBE is designed for ESL readers and those with limited English vocabulary. It sacrifices nuance for maximum readability.

Historical Background

Created as part of the Basic English movement, which aimed to simplify English for international use.

Origin: United Kingdom
Translators / Editors: S. H. Hooke (chief editor) with linguistic contributors
Revisions: Minor updates through mid-20th century

Textual Basis & Features

Below are some distinctives of the Bible in Basic English textual basis and translation style:

Uses Basic English vocabulary (~1000 words)
Highly simplified grammar
Accessible reading level

Further Reading & Resources

BBE Basic English project documentation
Public domain text

Other KTB translations:

ACV ASV BBE DARBY GNV KJV NHE ROT TYN WBT WEB WYC YLT