Cross-Language Influences in the Processing of Multiword Expressions: From a First Language to Second and Back

The present study investigated cross-language influences in the processing of binomial expressions ( knife and fork ), from a first language (L1) to second (L2) L2 L1. Two groups unbalanced bilinguals (Chinese/L1-English/L2 English/L1-Chinese/L2) control group English monolinguals performed visual lexical decision task that incorporated unmasked priming. To assess influences, we used three types expressions: congruent binomials (English have translation equivalents Chinese), English-only binomials, Chinese-only translated into English. Lexical latencies last word ) were compared with response same matched phrase spoon ). We found (1) Chinese-English showed significant priming effect for but no facilitation (2) English–Chinese trend toward which did not reach statistical significance, (3) comparable binomials. With respect none participant over controls. These findings suggest L1 there may be some cross-linguistic influence opposite direction, i.e., L1, although lesser extent.