Definitions
- Describing a person who can speak more than two languages. - Referring to a community or society where multiple languages are spoken. - Talking about a skill or ability to communicate in various languages.
- Describing a person who can speak three languages. - Referring to a community or society where three languages are spoken. - Talking about a skill or ability to communicate in three different languages.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe the ability to speak multiple languages.
- 2Both words can be used to describe individuals or communities.
- 3Both words emphasize language proficiency and communication skills.
What is the difference?
- 1Number of languages: Multilingual refers to speaking more than two languages, while trilingual specifically means speaking three languages.
- 2Scope: Multilingual is a broader term that encompasses any number of languages beyond two, while trilingual is more specific.
- 3Usage: Multilingual is more commonly used than trilingual in everyday language.
- 4Flexibility: Multilingual is a more flexible term that can be used to describe a wide range of language abilities, while trilingual is more limited in scope.
- 5Connotation: Multilingual may imply a higher level of language proficiency and cultural competence, while trilingual may suggest a more specialized or focused language ability.
Remember this!
Multilingual and trilingual are both words used to describe individuals or communities with the ability to speak multiple languages. However, multilingual refers to speaking more than two languages, while trilingual specifically means speaking three languages. While multilingual is a more flexible term, trilingual is more specific and may suggest a more specialized language ability.
