Language attrition

Languages

Language attrition corresponds to the deterioration of the level (of proficiency) of one’s native language, to the advantage of one's second language, after a certain time of exposure to and use of the new language. It is a progressive and complex phenomenon that ranges from small language variations to complete loss of language.

Pr. Antonella Sorace explains that “one of the effects of attrition [on vocabulary] is that finding words becomes a bit slower.” This phenomenon isn’t necessarily conscious, but it has been observed in a lab study. There also may be “interference from one language to the other”. In the case of grammar, attrition has “effects that lead to more variation”.

“Speakers experiencing attrition use a wider range of forms compared to a less bilingual or a monolingual speaker”

Julian Northbrook, “Is it possible to forget your native language?”

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