noun
ESOL
EE-sol
ESOL (noun) means English language teaching provided to people living in an English-speaking country whose first language is not English; also the subject or qualification itself. Example: “She enrolled on a free ESOL course at the local college.”
noun
1
English language teaching provided to people living in an English-speaking country whose first language is not English; also the subject or qualification itself.
"She enrolled on a free ESOL course at the local college."
"The council funds ESOL classes for new arrivals."
adjective
1
Relating to such teaching, its learners or its qualifications.
"He works as an ESOL tutor two evenings a week."
"ESOL Entry Level 3 is roughly equivalent to an intermediate qualification."
How to use ESOL
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEnglish lessons for adults living in an English-speaking country who speak another language at home.
When to use it
Standard term in education and government policy; pronounced as a word, not spelled out.
Memory tip
TESOL is the teaching qualification; ESOL is the subject the learners study.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
ESOL course
ESOL learner
ESOL tutor
ESOL qualification
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She enrolled on a free _____ course at the local college.
Etymology
An initialism of English for Speakers of Other Languages.
Synonyms
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ESL
English language teaching
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between ESOL and ESL?
They cover much the same ground, but ESOL is the standard term in the UK, Ireland and New Zealand, while ESL (English as a Second Language) is more common in the United States. ESOL is also preferred by many teachers because 'second language' is inaccurate for learners who already speak three or four.
What is the difference between ESOL and EFL?
ESOL teaches English to people who are living in an English-speaking country and need it for daily life, work and citizenship. EFL — English as a Foreign Language — teaches it to people studying in their own country, where English is not the language outside the classroom.
Are ESOL classes free in the UK?
Often, but not automatically. Funding usually depends on your immigration status, how long you have been resident, and whether you are on certain benefits, and it varies between England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Your local further education college can check your eligibility.
What is the meaning of ESOL?
"ESOL" (noun) means english language teaching provided to people living in an English-speaking country whose first language is not English; also the subject or qualification itself.
