Pragmatic competence is as an essential aspect of communicative competence. Does environment have an effect on developing pragmatic competence? Do levels of pragmatic competence differ between English as a second language (ESL) and English as a foreign language (EFL) students? Most studies have shown greater pragmatic awareness among ESL students than EFL students, indicating that the target language (TL) environment has a positive influence on the appropriate use of sociopragmatics. This review of the literature finds that input alone is insufficient for pragmatic competence: learners must notice linguistic forms in their use.

Pragmatic competence, second language (ESL), English as a foreign language (EFL)

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