English Reference

Word

ESL

Phoneticsesl

Definition

n. Stands for English as a Second Language. The study or teaching of English to people whose first language is not English. It is common in countries where English is the main language spoken.

n. Abbreviation for English as a Second Language. The practice or field of teaching English to non-native speakers, typically within an English-speaking environment.

Examples

“She is taking an ESL class to improve her speaking skills.”

“The school district hired three new ESL teachers to support the growing population of international students.”

“While some scholars prefer the term EAL to reflect multilingualism, ESL remains the standard designation for language support programs in many North American educational institutions.”

Examples

simple

“She is taking an ESL class to improve her speaking skills.”

contextual

“The school district hired three new ESL teachers to support the growing population of international students.”

complex

“While some scholars prefer the term EAL to reflect multilingualism, ESL remains the standard designation for language support programs in many North American educational institutions.”

Usage

Often used as a modifier before another noun, such as 'ESL student' or 'ESL program'.

This entry

Level
B1 · Intermediate
Frequency
Occasional
Updated

Scan code

englishreference.com/q/esl

English Reference