Foreign language

[nyggus]

What is the difference between the second/third language or the foreign language?


Nyggus

[Tdol]

If it's a second language, it generally means that the person is living in a community speaking that language, while if it is a foreign language, they wouldn't not be in a comunity speaking that language, but might use it professionally, etc.

[nyggus]

Originally Posted by tdol

If it's a second language, it generally means that the person is living in a community speaking that language, while if it is a foreign language, they wouldn't not be in a comunity speaking that language, but might use it professionally, etc.

Ok. Then English is my foreing language. If I move to England, then would it become my second language? Further on, if I come back to Poland, say, after a year, then would English become my foreign language again?

[Tdol]

In theory, yes. In the US and the Internet, the term ESL is generally used, so people think in terms of just a second language and don't bother with the distinction. Here in Japan, the term EFL (foreign) is widely used, while in the UK and Australia ESOL is widely used. I am afraid we're an acronym-heavy profession.

[nyggus]

Originally Posted by tdol

In theory, yes. In the US and the Internet, the term ESL is generally used, so people think in terms of just a second language and don't bother with the distinction. Here in Japan, the term EFL (foreign) is widely used, while in the UK and Australia ESOL is widely used. I am afraid we're an acronym-heavy profession.

Super! English is still my foreing language, but tomorrow it will be my second language . Unfortunately, it doesn't mean that my posts will be more correct and understandable .

Take care,
Nyggus

[Tdol]

It's my first language most of the time.