Understanding the Definition and Types of Bilingualism

Bilingualism does not necessarily require growing up speaking two languages but can be acquired at any age by becoming fluent in another language. The definition of bilingualism includes the ability to use two languages, while multilingualism involves using more than two languages. Bilingualism involves encoding thoughts and ideas in multiple symbolic systems for communication across time and space. Even those who can understand a second language without fluency may experience brain benefits, as seen in heritage bilinguals who grew up in households with a heritage language. Different types of bilingualism and multilingualism exist based on the language experiences individuals have.