Second Language Intuition: Native Language and Linguistic Universals

This chapter approaches the discussion of language learners’ intuition from two perspectives: knowledge derived from native language properties and knowledge derived from universal principles. The linguistic intuition of a second language learner can come from either his/her native language or linguistic universals or perhaps the interaction of both (e.g. Weinberger S, Minimal segments in Second Language phonology. In: James A, Leather A (eds) Second-language speech: structure and process. Mouton de Gruyter, Berlin, pp 23–311, 1996). Research showing the influence of native language properties and effects of universal forces in shaping second language learners’ knowledge system is reviewed. Specifically, only studies/models related to the acquisition of phonology and syntax are reviewed, since they are considered to be the two pillar branches in modern linguistics. A review of the relevant literature shows that both sources can form the basis of learners’ intuition.