Can You Forget a Language You Once Spoke Fluently?
Yes, it is entirely possible to experience the phenomenon of language attrition, where you may forget a language you once spoke fluently. This process, influenced by various factors, can lead to a decline in language proficiency if not practiced regularly. However, many find that relearning their former language can become much easier than starting from scratch.
Lack of Use: The Primary Catalyst
When a person stops using a language regularly, their cognitive abilities related to that language can deteriorate. Factors such as returning to a monolingual environment or spending a significant amount of time in a different language can all contribute to this decline in fluency. For instance, during a period of divorce, I stopping reading Japanese led to the loss of my memory for many of those tricky characters. Over time, the brain may prioritize the more frequently used language, making it challenging to recapture the fluency of a less-practiced one.
Interference from Other Languages
When a person becomes more fluent in another language, it can interfere with the ability to recall or use a less-practiced language. For example, if you are a Japanese speaker who starts learning English, the cognitive challenges of navigating a new language can hinder your ability to retain or recall your Japanese skills. Similarly, if you are a Thai speaker currently using an Indo-European language daily, you might experience a decline in your Thai vocabulary and grammar as these skills fall into disuse.
Age: A Factor in Language Retention
Younger individuals tend to retain new languages more effectively than older adults. However, as people age, their cognitive abilities, including language processing, may decline. Research has shown that younger learners are better able to reacquire languages because of their stronger neural plasticity. Even so, many older speakers find it easier to regain fluency than to learn from 'zero.' This is because some foundational knowledge often remains, even if specific vocabulary and grammar structures are forgotten.
Cognitive Load and Emotional Factors
When learning multiple languages, the brain can struggle to maintain proficiency in all, leading to attrition. Additionally, emotional factors can play a significant role. If a language is associated with negative experiences, a person might subconsciously avoid using it, leading to subconscious language attrition. On the other hand, motivating oneself to relearn a language can also have a positive impact on language retention.
Despite the challenges, getting back into the swing of things can be a rewarding experience. As suggested, immersing oneself in the language through various means can help regain fluency. Reading books, watching movies, and listening to music in the language can significantly aid the relearning process. Experts have noted that while relearning a language can happen, they do not promise a quick-and-easy fix. Patience and consistent effort are key to achieving fluency once again.
Finding the Right Resources
For someone like me, who has experienced language attrition, finding the right resources can make a tremendous difference. Relearning a language involves a gradual refamiliarization process. If you can find language books, comics, or dual-language books, you are creating a simulated learning environment. This approach can help you ease back into the language, making it feel less daunting. Additionally, listening to music and watching movies in the language can provide context and help reinforce the oral and reading skills.
In conclusion, while language attrition is a real phenomenon, the brain's capacity to relearn and retain language knowledge is significant. With the right mindset and resources, regaining fluency in a language you once spoke can be a fulfilling and enjoyable journey.