Noun-phrase production as a window to language selection: An ERP study

Characterising the time course of non-native language production is critical in understanding the mechanisms behind successful communication. Yet, little is known about the modulating role of cross-linguistic influence (CLI) on the temporal unfolding of non-native production and the locus of target language selection. In this study, we explored CLI effects on non-native noun phrase production with behavioural and neural methods. We were particularly interested in the modulation of the P300 as an index for inhibitory control, and the N400 as an index for co-activation and CLI. German late learners of Spanish overtly named pictures while their EEG was monitored. Our results indicate traceable CLI effects at the behavioural and neural level in both early and late production stages. This suggests that speakers faced competition between the target and non-target language until advanced production stages. Our findings add important behavioural and neural evidence to the underpinnings of non-native production processes, in particular for late learners.

Automated summary

Characterising the time course of non-native language production is crucial for understanding successful communication mechanisms, with cross-linguistic influence (CLI) playing a modulating role in non-native noun phrase production. Results show traceable CLI effects at both early and late production stages, indicating competition between target and non-target languages until advanced production stages. This study provides important behavioral and neural evidence for the understanding of non-native production processes, especially for late learners.