Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Non-native speakers refer to individuals who are learning and using a language that is not their first language. They have acquired it later in life or as a second language.
Related terms
Bilingualism: Bilingualism refers to the ability of an individual to speak two languages fluently.
Second Language Acquisition: Second language acquisition is the process of learning a second language after acquiring the first language.
Language Proficiency: Language proficiency measures how well an individual can use a specific language, including speaking, writing, listening, and reading skills.