What describes linguistic assimilation in second-language learning?

• A. Lose L1 while using L2
• B. Code-switching
• C. Language attrition
• D. Interlanguage

Answer: (A)

Linguistic assimilation in second-language learning means the learner’s language system shifts toward the second language as exposure and use of L2 increase, causing the first language features to recede. The best description is that you lose L1 while using L2—your active use of the second language reshapes your grammar, pronunciation, and vocabulary toward L2 norms, so L1 features become less dominant. This is different from code-switching, which is switching between languages in the same discourse; it’s also not just language attrition from disuse, which happens mainly when a language isn’t used for long periods; and it’s not about the learner’s evolving intermediate system (interlanguage) alone, which still sits between L1 and L2 rather than implying active suppression of L1 while using L2.