Lexical development in a third language

Abstract

In this chapter, I discuss lexical development in third language (L3) . One of the most researched aspects within this area is (CLI), that is the role of previously acquired languages, the first and/or second language (L1 and L2), on the learning and use of the L3. While much research has been carried out on learners at beginner’s level, there are also many studies on learners at intermediate and advanced levels. Such studies allow for an examination of lexical development beyond the . This chapter presents an overview of the main results and accounts for the ways in which previously acquired languages affect lexical development in the L3. The overview shows that overall, lexical CLI tends to diminish as proficiency in the L3 increases. However, when making a distinction between formal and , a more complex pattern emerges, with meaning-based CLI tending to occur more at later stages of acquisition. Finally, some L3 studies indicate that learners take advantage of both their L1 and their L2 when taking vocabulary tests; this lends support to the hypothesis of a advantage found in L2 research.