Negative versus Positive Transfer

Abstract

In the context of non‐native language acquisition or use, transfer broadly refers to influence of the learner's native language. Any two languages diverge in some respects but converge in other respects. When the influence of the native language (or a previously acquired non‐native language) leads to errors in the acquisition or use of the target language, we say that negative transfer or interference occurs. When the influence of a previously acquired language leads to immediate or rapid acquisition or use of the target language, we speak of positive transfer or facilitation .