Language Acquisition vs Language Learning

Language acquisition refers to the natural, unconscious process of developing language skills, typically occurring in children as they absorb language through daily interactions and environment. In contrast, language learning is a conscious, deliberate effort to develop language abilities, often involving studying, practicing, and memorizing rules, common in adult education. Acquisition mirrors how humans naturally pick up language skills without formal study, while learning is more structured and goal-oriented. Both processes can occur simultaneously but differ fundamentally in approach and context.