Explanation
Cross-linguistic interference here means a disruptive influence of existing linguistic knowledge on the use or comprehension of another language. The link from false friend identifies one possible trigger: similar forms may encourage transfer of a familiar meaning. The existence of such a word pair does not prove that influence occurred. Nor can every error be attributed to a previously learned language. The entry separates cross-linguistic influence broadly, its disruptive instance here, and the evidence required for a particular process.
Movement of thought
1. Describe the relevant formal similarity. 2. Identify the intended meaning. 3. Formulate a possible transfer. 4. Test alternative causes of error. 5. Use observed data to assess the influence hypothesis.
Scientific use case
Comparison groups and tasks controlling formal similarity can test a transfer hypothesis.
Example
A German speaker interpreting English eventually as “perhaps” may be transferring the meaning of German eventuell.
Counterexample
A slip or an unknown word alone does not demonstrate cross-linguistic influence.
Distinction
Distinguish disruptive interference from facilitation, similarity alone and general learning errors.
Effect on thought and perception
The analysis replaces blanket attribution of errors with an examinable explanation.
Resonance
Familiarity can build a bridge whose far end reaches an unexpected meaning.
Provenance
Parallel source review reconciled 2026-10-07; human specialist review not claimed.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Interference“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-NAV-G03-028. ATLAS 259, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-NAV-G03-028The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. Editorial reading state: 2026-10-15. Include your access date for precise references.