Enhancing Interlanguage Pragmatic Competence: Addressing the Cross-Cultural Communication Gap in EFL Contexts

Abstract

In today's increasingly globalized world, effective cross-cultural communication has become paramount, especially in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) contexts. This study employs a mixed-methods approach, blending qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys across diverse educational settings. A sample of 300 EFL learners from various cultural backgrounds was analyzed to uncover the intricacies of their interlanguage pragmatic development. Key findings indicate a significant mismatch between learners' pragmatic expectations and their actual performance in real-world interactions, highlighting the need for targeted instructional interventions. This study not only identifies specific areas of incompetence but also proposes evidence-based strategies for educators to enhance pragmatic awareness. These insights aim to bridge the identified gaps, fostering more effective communication skills among EFL learners globally.