<P> English as a second or foreign language is the use of English by speakers with different native languages . Language education for people learning English may be known as English as a second language (ESL), English as a foreign language (EFL), English as an additional language (EAL), or English for speakers of other languages (ESOL). </P> <P> The term ESL has been seen by some to indicate that English would be of subordinate importance . For example, where English is used as a lingua franca in a multilingual country . The term ESL can be a misnomer for some students who have learned several languages before learning English . The terms English Language Learners (ELL), and more recently English Learners (EL), have been used instead, and the students' native languages and cultures are considered important . </P>

What is the meaning of english as a second language