Role Of Proficiency In Source Language Activation While Learning English Lexemes In A Cross-Linguistic Context

Abstract

The study aimed to address the lexemic cross-linguistic influence (CLI) mechanism and the role of proficiency in activating the source language of influence. The multilingual, Gujari-speaking English lexical learner participated in the study through the discourse completion tasks and self-assessment tests. The study identified evidence of lexemic influence[1] from already learned languages at form and concept levels while English lexical items were used. The study found that Urdu as L2 offered a facilitative role compared to Gujari and Pahari in influencing learning English vocabulary as Ln. The results indicate that L2 Urdu serves as the primary source of lexemic influence on English (Ln), which is shaped by the higher level of proficiency in the Urdu Language. Hence, the pattern of influence was from higher to higher and Urdu as an L2 also functions as a filter for other language features when acquiring L3 lexemes.