Syntactic attrition

Definition

Syntactic attrition refers to the gradual loss or decline in the ability to use and comprehend the grammatical structures of a language, often occurring in individuals who have shifted to using another language more predominantly. This phenomenon is particularly observed in bilinguals or multilinguals, where the less frequently used language can suffer from weakened syntax over time. It highlights how exposure and practice in a language can influence linguistic competence, leading to potential simplifications or errors in sentence structure.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Syntactic attrition can result in the use of simpler sentence structures and reduced grammatical accuracy when speaking or writing.
2. Bilingual individuals may experience syntactic attrition when they primarily communicate in one language over another for extended periods.
3. Research shows that the extent of syntactic attrition can vary based on factors like age, frequency of use, and motivation to maintain proficiency.
4. Syntactic attrition is often accompanied by morphological attrition, as both aspects of language are intertwined and influence each other.
5. Language immersion programs and regular practice can help mitigate the effects of syntactic attrition by reinforcing grammatical skills.

Review Questions

• How does syntactic attrition manifest in bilingual individuals, and what factors might influence its severity?
  • Syntactic attrition in bilingual individuals typically manifests as a decline in the complexity and accuracy of grammatical structures when using the less dominant language. Factors that influence its severity include the frequency of language use, age of acquisition, context of language exposure, and personal motivation to maintain proficiency. As bilinguals engage more with one language, their syntactic skills in the other may deteriorate due to lack of practice and reinforcement.
• Discuss the relationship between syntactic attrition and language immersion experiences. How can immersion help retain syntactic skills?
  • Language immersion experiences provide extensive exposure and practice in a specific language, which can significantly help retain syntactic skills. By consistently engaging with the language in diverse contexts, individuals reinforce their understanding of grammatical structures. This consistent use prevents the decline seen in syntactic attrition, allowing learners to maintain fluency and complexity in their sentences. Immersion promotes a deeper cognitive connection with syntax, making it less likely for these skills to diminish.
• Evaluate how understanding syntactic attrition can inform approaches to language education for bilingual students. What strategies could be implemented?
  • Understanding syntactic attrition provides valuable insights into how educators can tailor their approaches for bilingual students. Recognizing that decreased exposure to a language can lead to grammatical decline informs strategies such as balanced bilingual education programs that encourage equal use of both languages. Additionally, incorporating activities that emphasize complex sentence structures, such as creative writing or storytelling exercises, can reinforce syntax. Regular assessments and targeted interventions for students showing signs of attrition will also support maintaining their linguistic skills effectively.

Related terms

Language attrition: The process through which a person gradually loses proficiency in a language due to lack of use or exposure.

Bilingualism: The ability to speak and understand two languages fluently, which can impact language maintenance and attrition.

Morphological attrition: The loss of knowledge regarding the forms and structures of words in a language, often linked to language attrition.