3K

Bilingual

UK //ˌbaɪˈlɪŋɡwəl//US //ˌbaɪˈlɪŋɡwəl//

Definition

A person proficient in two languages.

In simple words: A person who speaks two languages well.

Examples

  • She is a bilingual teacher who instructs students in both English and Spanish.
  • Many bilingual individuals have better cognitive flexibility.
  • Being bilingual can enhance job opportunities in a globalized world.
  • The bilingual children excelled in both languages during the language assessment.
  • As a bilingual, he easily switches between French and German in conversation.

Usage notes

Use 'bilingual' when discussing language abilities. It's appropriate in both formal and informal contexts, but avoid overusing or mislabeling someone who speaks only basic phrases.

Grammar pattern

bilingual + noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'bi' cyclist riding on two roads, speaking two languages.

Collocations

  • bilingual education
  • bilingual immigrant
  • bilingual speaker

Synonyms

  • dual-language speaker
  • bilingual speaker
  • two-language user

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'multilingual,' which means speaking more than two languages.
  • Using 'bilingual' for someone who knows a language but is not proficient.
  • Mispronouncing or misspelling the word, such as 'bilingue' or 'bi-lingual.'