Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) Practice Test 2025 - Free TESOL Practice Questions and Study Guide

The concept of English as a lingua franca primarily refers to its function as a common language that enables communication between speakers who do not share a native language. In this context, English serves as a tool for interaction, allowing people from diverse linguistic backgrounds to communicate effectively. This role is particularly significant in international settings, such as business, travel, and academic collaboration, where individuals may not speak the same native language.

The focus is on communication rather than adherence to native speaker norms, meaning that non-native speakers use English to facilitate understanding among themselves. This aspect underscores the dynamic and flexible nature of English as a lingua franca, highlighting that it evolves based on the needs and contexts of its users.

Other choices misrepresent this role: formal written communication might limit its scope, exclusive use by native speakers contradicts the idea of a lingua franca, and usage solely in academic research does not reflect the broader communicative purpose that characterizes English's role as a global means of interaction among non-native speakers.