bilingual
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //ˈbaɪlɪŋɡwəl//
KK: /ˈbaɪlɪŋɡwəl/
adjective
Definition
Relating to or able to use two languages, often with similar skill in both.
Example
She is bilingual and can speak both English and Spanish fluently.
Conversation
Did you know that she's bilingual?
Really? That's impressive!
Yeah, she speaks both Spanish and English fluently.
I wish I were bilingual too; it would be so useful.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
multilingual
dual
twofold
Antonyms
monolingual
single
unilingual
noun
Definition
A person who can speak and understand two languages well.
Example
She is a bilingual who speaks both English and Spanish fluently.
Conversation
I met someone who is a bilingual speaker at the cafe today.
Oh really? That's impressive!
Yeah, they can switch between languages so effortlessly.
Root Explanation
Bilingual → It is formed from "bi-" (meaning two) and "lingua" (meaning tongue or language). The word "bilingual" refers to a person who can speak two languages.
Memory Tip
Think of 'bi-' meaning two and 'lingua' meaning language — that's why bilingual means someone who speaks two languages.
Visually Confused Words
tubilingual
lingual
labiolingual
brevilingual
unilingual
trilingual
sublingual
linguale