English-Based Loanwords : Characteristics, Learner Preferences, and Pedagogical Potential

The borrowing of loanwords into Korean is prevalent and is occurring at a quickening pace. In the learning of English vocabulary, the English cognates of these English-based loanwords (EBLs) could be targeted for instruction, but rarely are. Indeed, their inclusion in vocabulary learning is often stigmatized, and research on the use of EBLs in Korean discourse and on classroom instruction on their English cognates is minimal. This study sets out a classification of EBLs, based on their differences from their English cognates, and quantifies these differences with a quality designation. This EBL quality score identifies the types of differences for which more focused instruction may be required. The survey also show that learners us a considerable number of English cognates of EBLs in their written production and general use. However, the study also reveals that learners often do not know how the English cognates that they are using differ from their EBLs or even whether they differ in any way. It is obvious that there are pedagogical ramifications of these findings, and it is indeed proposed that much more attention be accorded to cognates of EBLs for a rapid English lexicon expansion and English cognate understanding.