Bilingualism Types and Essential English Vocabulary

Classified in Social sciences

Written on in English with a size of 3.85 KB

Understanding Bilingualism

Bilingualism is the ability and function of dual language acquisition. It is best acquired through consistent exposure in real-life scenarios where grammar can be internalized more easily.

Types of Bilingualism

Early Bilingualism

When the time of acquisition occurs in childhood, it is considered early bilingualism. In contrast to that, late bilingualism occurs if the time of acquisition happens in adulthood. Further explained, the cut-off point is not clearly stated, but it can be set at around the age of three to be considered early bilingualism.

Late Bilingualism

Late bilingualism refers to bilingualism when the second language is learned after the age of 6 or 7, especially when it is learned in adolescence or adulthood. Late bilingualism is a consecutive bilingualism which occurs after the acquisition of the first language.


Language Use and Acquisition

According to the use of the first language, there is additive bilingualism and subtractive bilingualism. Moreover, sometimes the terms of late and early bilingualism are associated with the terms learn and acquire. Human interaction is the best method! And it can be provided within the family or in the school, as part of the community.

Essential Vocabulary and Expressions

Personality Traits and Characteristics

  • Neat: Ordenado
  • Easy-going: Tranquilo
  • Greedy: Codicioso
  • Lazy: Perezoso
  • Quick: Rápido
  • Smart: Inteligente
  • Reliable: Confiable
  • Selfish: Egoísta
  • Clumsy: Torpe
  • Naughty: Travieso
  • Ruthless: Despiadado
  • Witty: Ingenioso
  • Touchy: Quisquilloso
  • Cheerful: Alegre
  • Boastful: Fanfarrón
  • Kind: Amable
  • Hesitant: Vacilante
  • Jealous: Celoso
  • Absent-minded: Despistado
  • Talkative: Hablador
  • Weepy: Llorón
  • Rude: Rudo

Common Objects and Daily Life

  • Nap: Siesta
  • Reading corner: Rincón de lectura
  • Tidy up: Poner orden
  • Cradle: Cuna
  • Nappies: Pañal
  • Carpet: Alfombra
  • Rubber: Goma
  • Feeding bottle: Biberón
  • Warmer: Calientabiberones
  • Pencil sharpener: Sacapuntas
  • Marker: Rotulador
  • Laptop: Portátil

Emotions and Feelings

  • Annoyed: Molesto
  • Hurt: Herido
  • Smug: Presumido
  • Disappointed: Decepcionado
  • Thoughtful: Pensativo
  • Worried: Preocupado
  • Enraged: Enfurecido
  • Amused: Animado
  • Lonely: Solitario
  • Frightened: Asustado
  • Silly: Tonto
  • Proud: Orgulloso
  • Cautious: Precavido
  • Terrified: Terrorífico
  • Blissful: Encantado
  • Grieving: Desolado

Weather Expressions

  • It’s windy: Hace viento
  • It’s foggy: Hay niebla

Related entries: