ESL Glossary: 20 Key English Learning Terms Explained

The term for English taught to people whose first language (mother tongue) is not English. When a French speaker, a Spanish speaker, or a Korean speaker learns English, they are ESL learners.

Very similar to ESL, but with a geographic distinction: EFL specifically refers to English studied in a country where English is not widely spoken day-to-day (e.g., learning English in Germany or Japan). ESL is typically used for learners in English-speaking countries.

The qualification and methodology framework for ESL teachers. A “TEFL qualification” typically refers to a certificate earned after completing a recognised teacher training course — usually 120 hours or more.

Issued by Cambridge Assessment English, widely considered the most rigorous entry-level qualification for ESL teachers. CELTA training involves four weeks of intensive coursework and assessed live teaching practice.

The advanced-level Cambridge qualification for experienced ESL teachers, typically taken after several years of classroom practice. Equivalent to a postgraduate level qualification.

The international standard for describing and measuring language proficiency, published by the Council of Europe. Divides language ability into six levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2.

The starting point on the CEFR scale. A1 learners can introduce themselves, ask and answer simple questions about familiar topics (name, nationality, where they live), and understand very slow, clear speech on familiar subjects.

Can understand frequently used expressions in areas of immediate relevance (shopping, local geography, employment). Can communicate in simple, routine exchanges. Sometimes called “survival English.”

Can deal with most situations likely to arise while travelling in an English-speaking area. Can describe experiences, events, and ambitions, and briefly give reasons and explanations. Often called the “tourist level.”

Can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in their field. Can interact fluently enough that conversation with native speakers is possible without strain. Often called “workplace-ready” English.

Can express ideas fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. Can use English flexibly and effectively for social, academic, and professional purposes.

Can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. Can express themselves spontaneously, fluently and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in more complex situations.

The ability to speak smoothly, accurately, and with ease — without long pauses to translate from your first language, without searching laboriously for words, and without obvious discomfort. Fluency is not perfection — fluent speakers make mistakes. It is ease and flow.

Also called “first language” or “L1.” The language a person learned from birth, typically in the home. For most Easy English Lessons students, English is their second (or third, or fourth) language — not their mother tongue.

A language learning approach where the learner is surrounded by the target language as much as possible — through conversation, media, reading, and daily life — rather than through structured classroom instruction alone.

A learning technique where new vocabulary is reviewed at increasing intervals — just before the point of forgetting. Apps like Duolingo use spaced repetition algorithms to maximise vocabulary retention.

Passive vocabulary: words you can recognise and understand when you see or hear them. Active vocabulary: words you can produce spontaneously in speech and writing. Most learners have a much larger passive vocabulary than active vocabulary.

A teaching methodology that prioritises using language for real communication over formal grammar instruction. Students practise language by doing things with it — role plays, conversations, problem-solving — rather than studying grammar rules in isolation.

A word in a foreign language that looks or sounds like a word in your native language but means something different. For example: Spanish embarazada looks like “embarrassed” but means “pregnant.” French librairie looks like “library” but means “bookshop.”

The point at which a language learner stops making visible progress despite continued effort. Most commonly experienced at low-to-mid intermediate level (A2–B1), when the early vocabulary gains have been made but speaking fluency has not yet developed.