LEXICAL COMPETENCE: DISTINGUISHING COMPETENCE FROM SKILLS IN LANGUAGE LEARNING

Abstract
This essay explains lexical competence and the difference between lexical competence and language skills. Competence refers to internal, generally unconscious knowledge of words, while skills are the active application of that knowledge in communication. The essay highlights the significance of lexical competence in achieving fluency, comprehension, and communicative efficiency. It also considers pedagogical approaches like context-based learning, repeated exposure, and active vocabulary use to promote competence in addition to skill acquisition. Balanced pedagogy in language instruction is promoted in order to achieve effective and meaningful learning.
Keywords
Lexical competence, vocabulary, language skills, communicative competence, receptive vocabulary, productive vocabulary, fluency, word formation, contextual learning, language teaching, lexical knowledge, vocabulary development
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