Second language acquisition of Spanish pragmatics

Abstract

This chapter describes current understanding of the acquisition of pragmatics in Spanish as a second language (L2). It begins with an overview of theoretical and analytical frameworks of L2 acquisition, pragmatic competence, pragmatic transfer, the relationship between pragmatics and other areas of linguistic competence, and the role of awareness in L2 pragmatics. We describe various pragmatic phenomena (e.g., deixis, implicature, speech acts, and interactional competence) in L2 Spanish to discuss developmental patterns. In addition, we review recent studies of L2 Spanish pragmatics, focusing on the effects of pragmatics instruction and contexts of learning (e.g., classroom, digital communication). The chapter concludes with implications of research in L2 pragmatics, followed by recommendations for future studies of pragmatics acquisition in L2 Spanish.