The term target language refers to the specific language that is the end goal of a particular process, most commonly used in language learning, translation, and computer science. Depending on the context, its definition changes slightly to describe the language being acquired, the output of a translation, or the final machine code. 1. Language Education & Acquisition
In linguistics and education, the target language (often abbreviated as TL) is the foreign or second language that a person is actively trying to learn.
Classroom Immersion: Major global institutions like the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) recommend that teachers use the target language for 90% or more of classroom time. This maximizes immersive exposure.
Lesson Focus: In a single lesson context, it also refers to the specific grammar structure or vocabulary set being taught that day (e.g., learning how to order food).
Contrasting Term: It is directly contrasted with a learner’s source language or mother tongue (MT), which is their native language. 2. Translation & Localization
In the translation and localization industries, the target language is the final language into which a text or document is translated. Facilitate Target Language Use – ACTFL
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