Introduction
Background of the study
Acquiring different languages is a complex process that requires persistency
and consistency. Nowadays, English has become the language of communication
and globalization and the world’s most widely used language. The term multilingual
refers to an intricate and dynamic ability to communicate more than one language.
Being multilingual is a complex process of discovery, collaboration, and inquiry
facilitated by language. In fact, being proficient in multiple languages nowadays is
crucial since we live in a multilingual environment in which individuals speak different
languages on a regular basis.
Furthermore, individuals that speak more than one language is increasing
leading to a demand for more multilingual education. Multilingualism highlights the
growing body of research that demonstrates the cognitive, social, and academic
benefits associated with the ability to speak multiple languages. Bialystok (2021)
emphasizes that multilingual individuals often develop superior literacy skills and
exhibits enhanced cognitive flexibility due to their ability to switch between
languages. Multilingualism has been linked to cognitive reserve, which may delay the
onset of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzhermer’s (Mendez, 2023 and Kim et al,
2019).
Greve et al. (2024) suggest that multilingual individuals are more adept at
adjusting to diverse social and linguistic contexts, contributing to their overall
cognitive flexibility. In small-scale multilingual societies, an individual uses a large
number of languages and usually identifies one of them as the primary language.
Although empirically observable, primary language has been significantly
underexplored, particularly the spatiality of its identification. It is not clear whether
and how place is related to why one language might be seen as being more
significant than other language.
In today's globalized world, multilingualism has become a prevalent
phenomenon, especially in regions where people speak multiple languages. The
ability to communicate in several languages is increasingly valued in both social and
professional contexts, often seen as an advantage for cognitive development, cross-
cultural understanding, and career opportunities. However, the relationship between
multilingualism and proficiency in a dominant or widely spoken language, such as
English, is complex and multifaceted. English, being the global lingua franca, plays a
central role in international communication, education, and business. As more
individuals around the world speak multiple languages, it is essential to explore how
multilingualism affects one's proficiency in English. Research into this area has
produced mixed findings, with some studies suggesting that multilingualism
enhances cognitive abilities, leading to better linguistic skills, including in English,
while other research indicates that excessive focus on multiple languages could lead
to challenges in mastering a particular language fully. Despite cognitive advantages,
multilingual learners often struggle with English vocabulary acquisition, syntax, and
phonological accuracy due to the influence of their native languages(Ngọc, 2024).
In particular, this study aims to investigate how multilingual individuals'
exposure to, and use of, languages other than English influences their English
proficiency. The cognitive load of switching between languages, the potential
interference from non-English languages, and the transfer of linguistic skills are key
factors that may either positively or negatively impact English proficiency. Moreover,
the context in which multilingualism is acquired—whether in a family setting,
educational system, or through immersion in a multilingual community—could also
shape one's ability to effectively learn and use English. Given the importance of
English in global communication, understanding the impact of multilingualism on
English proficiency is crucial. This research will explore how multilingual individuals
navigate their linguistic repertoire, the strategies they employ to enhance their
English skills, and the challenges they face in balancing multiple languages. The
findings of this study could provide valuable insights for educators, linguists, and
policymakers aiming to design effective language learning programs and promote
multilingual education without compromising proficiency in dominant languages like
English.
There are some cognitive benefits and challenges that multilingual individuals
may experience both cognitive benefits and challenges . Deeper exploration of these
cognitive factors in relation to English proficiency can shed light on the ways in which
multilingualism influences the ability to learn and use English. These cognitive
advantages make multilingualism particularly relevant in educational contexts, as
multilingual children often exhibit superior problem-solving skills and enhanced
metalinguistic awareness (dos Santos, et al, 2021; Mohanty, 2022).
