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A second language is a language that is learned after one has already learned one language. Sometimes it is also that your family is bi or multilingual. For example I speak Marathi but because of schools in India i have to be very fluent in Hindi and English (these are my 2nd and 3rd languages). It is often learned for business purposes because of the second language's dominance in important affairs. For example, many people learn English because of how many important affairs involve the United States.

A foreign language is a language that is from a country other than one's native country. Foreign languages are usually learned for the sake of learning about the culture and people who speak it. For example, some people learn ancient Greek for a deeper understanding of the early philosophers from reading their works in their original language.A second language is a language you learn that is not the language you normally speak. e.g. if you grow up speaking only English and you learn spanish later in life your second language is spanish. Furthermore you have choice whether to continue your career in that language as it is just something you have to learn in school and give tests on. It may or may not help you later in life. So it is like something quite distant to you and you do not use it every day to think or speak.

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6mo ago

A second language is a language that a person learns in addition to their native language and often has some degree of proficiency in, while a foreign language is a language that is not commonly spoken in the learner's environment and is usually learned for academic, business, or personal reasons. The distinction lies in the context in which the language is learned and used.

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Q: What are the differences between second language and foreign language?
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What was the second-most-spoken foreign language in the u.s. in 2006?

If one considers English to be a native language of the U.S. (which could be a point of debate in itself), then Spanish would be the most-spoken foreign language and the dialects of the Chinese language would be the second most-spoken foreign language.


When do French students learn a second language?

In France, students typically start learning a second language in primary school around the ages of 6-7. The most commonly taught second language is English, followed by Spanish and German. By the time students finish secondary school, they are expected to have a strong command of at least one foreign language.


What is the difference between English as second language and English as foreign language?

English as a second language (ESL) is typically taught in a country where English is the primary language, with the goal of helping non-native speakers become proficient in English. English as a foreign language (EFL) is taught in countries where English is not the primary language, with the focus on developing English language skills for communication or academic purposes.


What is the second language spoken in Australia?

The second most spoken language in Australia is Mandarin Chinese, followed by Arabic.


What foreign language do German speak most?

The most commonly spoken foreign language among Germans is English. English is widely taught in schools and is widely used in business and tourism in Germany. Additionally, many Germans have a strong command of English as a second language.

Related questions

What was the second-most-spoken foreign language in the u.s. in 2006?

If one considers English to be a native language of the U.S. (which could be a point of debate in itself), then Spanish would be the most-spoken foreign language and the dialects of the Chinese language would be the second most-spoken foreign language.


What is Iceland's second language?

The second language native to Iceland is Icelandic Sign Language. The second most widely spoken language in Iceland is English (as a foreign language).


Is English the second language in Russia?

English is the most widely spoken foreign language in Russia, but it would be debatable to call it the second language of Russia.


Why does a tour guide need a second language?

So foreign people can understand it


How do you speak in London?

Much as other English people although there are now many significant minority populations of foreign or ethnic origins who speak English as a second language.


Why English is the second language of most foreign countries?

English is the official International language for all business communication and all airline communications therefore it is the most useful language to learn as a second language.


What is the difference between EFL and ESL?

There is only a small difference between EFL (English as a Foreign Language) and ESL (English as a Second Language). Both refer to the study or acquisition of English language skills by those with another native tongue. Use the link below, read a couple of paragraphs, and become your own expert.ESL: English as a Second Language*EFL: English as a Foreign LanguageAccording to some professionals, there are clear differences, depending on the student's place of residence, and whether or not they intend to live in an English-speaking country, or just want to be able to speak English in their own, non-English-speaking, country.Academics often make much of such differences. However, the Cambridge University English Language Teaching qualifications, for example, make no particular distinction between the two. A qualified and competent English-Language teacher is able to adapt the course to the English language needs of any student, according to their individual needs and abilities.*(For external comments on ESL v. ESL, see Related links below this box)


Which language is considered as a foreign language and as the official language of India?

English is the a foreign language that has become a major official language of India. Indians who speak different Indian languages typically revert to English as it is a second language for everyone and therefore makes everyone equal.


When do French students learn a second language?

In France, students typically start learning a second language in primary school around the ages of 6-7. The most commonly taught second language is English, followed by Spanish and German. By the time students finish secondary school, they are expected to have a strong command of at least one foreign language.


What is the difference between English as second language and English as foreign language?

English as a second language (ESL) is typically taught in a country where English is the primary language, with the goal of helping non-native speakers become proficient in English. English as a foreign language (EFL) is taught in countries where English is not the primary language, with the focus on developing English language skills for communication or academic purposes.


Individual Differences in second language acquisition?

Individual differences in second language acquisition refer to the variations in how learners acquire a new language, including factors such as motivation, cognitive abilities, age, learning style, and previous language experiences. These differences can influence the speed, quality, and success of language learning for each individual. Understanding these variations can help educators tailor teaching methods to better meet the needs of diverse learners.


Is English taught as a second language in Germany?

Yes. In most parts of Germany English is the first foreign language taught at school.