ESL
/esl/from spelling rules
ESL is an abbreviation for English as a Second Language used in Spanish.
This abbreviation is used to refer to the study of English by non-native speakers.
How do you pronounce it?
/esl/
Did you know?
- The Spanish word for 'language', lengua, literally means 'tongue', reflecting an ancient connection between the physical organ and the act of speaking.
- While ESL is an acronym, Spanish speakers often treat it as a foreign noun, occasionally adding the feminine article la before it because it refers to la lengua.
- In some Spanish-speaking contexts, the term segunda lengua implies a language used for daily communication in a community, while lengua extranjera describes a language learned solely in a classroom.
Examples in context
- Las clases de 'Inglés como Segunda Lengua' son muy populares en nuestro vecindario.ESL classes are very popular in our neighborhood.
- Ofrecen programas de 'Enseñanza de Inglés como Lengua Extranjera' en varias universidades de todo el país.They offer Teaching English as a Foreign Language programs in several universities throughout the country.
- Necesito un libro para el programa de ESL.I need a book for the ESL program.
- El profesor de ESL es muy amable.The ESL teacher is very kind.
Example conversation
Mateo and Elena are discussing their school schedules.
- MateoElena, ¿estudias ESL este semestre?Elena, are you studying ESL this semester?
- ElenaSí, Mateo, tengo clase ahora.Yes, Mateo, I have class now.
- MateoYo también tomo ESL.I am taking ESL too.
- Elena¡Qué bien! Nos vemos en el salón.That's great! I'll see you in the classroom.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
