Asymmetries Between Direct and Indirect Scalar Implicatures in Second Language Acquisition

Area of Science:

• Linguistics
• Psycholinguistics
• Second Language Acquisition

Background:

• Scalar implicatures (SI) involve inferring meaning beyond literal words, with direct (DSI) and indirect (ISI) forms.
• Previous studies show developmental differences in SI processing in native speakers.
• Limited research exists on how non-native speakers process DSI and ISI in a second language (L2).

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the computation and suspension of DSI and ISI in L2 English speakers.
• To compare L2 processing patterns with those of native English speakers.
• To explore potential reasons for observed asymmetries in L2 SI processing.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a covered box paradigm to assess SI interpretation in L2 English learners (n=24) and native English speakers (n=26).
• Measured picture selection percentages (visible vs. covered) and response times (RTs) to analyze SI computation and suspension.
• Analyzed differences in processing direct scalar implicature (DSI) versus indirect scalar implicature (ISI).

Main Results:

• L2 speakers exhibited asymmetries in DSI and ISI generation and suspension, unlike native speakers.
• L2 speakers computed DSI more frequently than ISI but suspended ISI more often than DSI.
• RT data indicated L2 speakers suspended ISI significantly faster than DSI.

Conclusions:

• L2 English learners demonstrate distinct processing patterns for DSI and ISI compared to native speakers.
• The observed asymmetries in L2 processing may relate to the complexity of alternative meanings and suspension routes.
• Findings contribute to understanding psycholinguistic mechanisms in second language comprehension of pragmatic inference.