foreign language

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "foreign language" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to any language that is not the native language of the speaker or writer. Example: "She is fluent in three foreign languages: Spanish, French, and German."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Foreign language?

The Washington Post

"It's like a foreign language".

The New York Times

Foreign Language Film "Amour" again.

The New Yorker

He speaks no foreign language.

The Economist

Foreign language, too.

The Washington Post

Foreign Language Films.

The New York Times

2. Foreign language disclosures.

Cornell University

Moscow, Foreign Language Pub.

Stanford University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

The department recruits in foreign-language newspapers.

The New York Times

There are four foreign-language papers.

The New Yorker

§ 803.8 Foreign language documents.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When specifying a "foreign language", consider including the specific language name to provide clarity and context. For example, instead of saying "He studies a foreign language", specify "He studies Spanish".

Common error

Avoid using "foreign language" and "second language" interchangeably without considering the context. "Foreign language" generally refers to a language not commonly spoken in a particular country, while "second language" refers to any language learned after one's native language. Use "second language" if the context is about language acquisition, regardless of location.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "foreign language" functions as a noun phrase modifier, where the adjective "foreign" modifies the noun "language". It describes a language that is not native to a particular country or speaker. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Wiki

26%

Academia

22%

Less common in

Science

15%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "foreign language" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a language that is not native to a particular region or speaker. Ludwig confirms its correctness. Its usage spans various contexts, from academic discussions and news reports to casual conversations, as demonstrated by the numerous examples provided by Ludwig. When using the phrase, consider providing specific language names for clarity and avoid interchanging it with "second language" without careful consideration of the context. Alternatives like "non-native language" or "acquired language" may offer more precise meanings in certain situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

non-native language

Focuses on the language not being the native one.

second language

Highlights the language being learned after the first.

acquired language

Emphasizes the process of learning the language.

international language

Specifies the language's global use and recognition.

alien tongue

Uses a more figurative term for an unfamiliar language.

immigrant language

Highlights the language spoken by immigrants.

language of adoption

Emphasizes the choice of a language that is not the native language.

world language

Refers to languages spoken and studied worldwide.

additional language

Focuses on the language being supplemental to the primary one.

linguistic other

Uses a more abstract and academic expression.

FAQs

How to use "foreign language" in a sentence?

You can use "foreign language" to describe languages that are not native to a particular place or speaker. For instance, "She is studying a "foreign language" at university" or "Fluency in a "foreign language" can open up many career opportunities".

What is the difference between "foreign language" and "second language"?

"Foreign language" typically refers to a language that is not commonly spoken in a specific country or region, whereas "second language" refers to any language learned after one's native language, regardless of where it is spoken. The terms are not always interchangeable.

What are some benefits of learning a "foreign language"?

Learning a "foreign language" can improve cognitive skills, enhance cultural understanding, and increase employment opportunities. It can also facilitate travel and communication with people from different backgrounds.

What can I say instead of "foreign language"?

You can use alternatives like "non-native language", "second language", or "acquired language depending on the specific context. These alternatives emphasize different aspects of the language in relation to the speaker or location.