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Monolingual: meaning, definitions and examples

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monolingual

 

[ ˌmɒnəˈlɪŋɡwəl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

language use

Monolingual refers to the ability to use only one language. It describes individuals, communities, or contexts where only one language is spoken or understood. Monolingual speakers may have limitations in engaging with people who speak different languages. In contrast to bilingual or multilingual, monolingualism can shape cognitive processes and cultural interactions in specific ways.

Synonyms

one-language, single-language

Examples of usage

  • He is monolingual and only speaks English.
  • In a monolingual environment, communication can be challenging for non-native speakers.
  • Monolingual education can limit students' exposure to other cultures.

Translations

Translations of the word "monolingual" in other languages:

🇵🇹 monolingue

🇮🇳 एकल-भाषी

🇩🇪 einsprachig

🇮🇩 monolingual

🇺🇦 монолінгвальний

🇵🇱 monolingwalny

🇯🇵 単言語の

🇫🇷 monolingue

🇪🇸 monolingüe

🇹🇷 tek dilli

🇰🇷 단일 언어의

🇸🇦 أحادي اللغة

🇨🇿 jednojazyčný

🇸🇰 jednojazyčný

🇨🇳 单语的

🇸🇮 monolingvalen

🇮🇸 einn tungumál

🇰🇿 монолингвальный

🇬🇪 ერთენოვანი

🇦🇿 tək dilli

🇲🇽 monolingüe

Word origin

The term 'monolingual' originates from the combination of two parts: 'mono-' and 'lingual.' 'Mono-' is a Greek prefix meaning 'one' or 'single,' emphasizing the singular nature of the concept it describes. 'Lingual' comes from the Latin word 'lingua,' which means 'language' or 'tongue.' The use of this term in the context of language arose in the 20th century as sociolinguists and educators began to analyze language usage in monolingual and multilingual settings. Monolingual environments are often contrasted with multilingual ones, where multiple languages coexist, influencing communication and cultural exchange.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,572, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.