language competence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "language competence" is correct and usable in written English.
It is a term used to describe someone's ability to be proficient in a particular language. For example, "Achieving a high level of language competence is important to succeed in a multilingual environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The language competence of our high schoolers fell steeply in the 1970s and has never recovered.

The New York Times

Children are routinely tested for language competence (in Bremen at 4½).By some measures, indeed, Germany is in good shape.

The Economist

For more than a decade, Ielts has also been the main way that people applying for migrant worker visas demonstrate their language competence.

The Guardian

"We're reaching the position where language competence is a prerogative of the privately educated elite, and language degrees are restricted to Russell Group universities".

The Guardian

People confuse language competence with technical ability .Theoretically yes, in practice noWhat's more, few Chinese engineering and computer graduates are as good as their qualifications suggest.

The Economist

As many as 23% have no member of staff with language competence higher than GCSE level and up to 8.5% may have no language expertise at all within their school.

The Guardian

For example, studies of individuals being treated for epilepsy in whom the corpus callosum has been severed, allowing the two hemispheres to function largely independently, have revealed that the right hemisphere has more language competence than was thought.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Contrary to Mr Green's claim, according to the school's website, "all applicants should have evidence of excellent English language competence" and that "this may require an English language test".

The Economist

Language competence.

Asian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education

This framework consists of three main components: language competence, strategic competence, and psychophysiological mechanisms.

Language Testing in Asia

When testing language competence at B2 level, mistakes tend to repeat.

Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing specific levels of "language competence", consider using established frameworks like the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) to provide a clear and standardized measure.

Common error

Avoid assuming that strong "language competence" automatically equates to high intelligence or competence in other non-linguistic areas. Focus on assessing skills independently.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "language competence" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig confirms that it correctly denotes the ability to understand and use a language effectively. It is often used to describe a specific skill or level of expertise in a language.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "language competence" is a widely used and grammatically correct phrase that describes the ability to understand and use a language effectively. Ludwig AI confirms its usage across varied formal contexts like science, news, and business. While it is a generally acceptable term, it is crucial to consider specific contexts and choose appropriate alternatives like "language proficiency" or "linguistic ability" when necessary. Remember to assess "language competence" using standardized frameworks and avoid equating it with general intelligence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

linguistic ability

Replaces "competence" with "ability", focusing on the general capacity to use language.

language proficiency

Emphasizes the degree of skill in a language, similar to competence.

linguistic proficiency

Combines "linguistic" with "proficiency" to emphasize expertise in language.

language skill

Focuses on specific skills within language, such as reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

language expertise

Emphasizes specialized knowledge and skill in a language.

command of language

Highlights the level of control and mastery over a language.

fluency in language

Refers to the smoothness and ease of using a language.

literacy

Focuses on reading and writing skills within a language.

verbal ability

Highlights the ability to use language effectively in communication.

bilingual competence

Specific to the ability to use two languages effectively.

FAQs

How can I improve my "language competence"?

Immerse yourself in the language through reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Consider using language learning apps, taking courses, or practicing with native speakers.

What's the difference between "language competence" and "language performance"?

"Language competence" refers to the underlying knowledge of a language, while "language performance" is the actual use of that language in real-life situations. Competence is the potential, performance is the realization.

How is "language competence" assessed?

Language competence is assessed through various tests and evaluations, such as standardized language exams (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), proficiency interviews, and writing samples.

What are some alternatives to saying "language competence"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "language proficiency", "linguistic ability", or "command of language".