English as a Linguacultural Code for Communication

Language fluency is a complex achievement which consists of multiple
different elements. A lay-person would generally equate successful language
use with a successful conduct of grammar and vocabulary or i.e., linguistic
competence. However, linguists and other language professionals have con�tinuously confirmed through research that linguistic competence is only one
element of language fluency. In order to be able to use the language efficiently,
a speaker needs to be aware of sociocultural factors and contextual features in
a particular speech situation. Herein, this paper gives a theoretical overview of
the interrelations among language, culture and communication. The aim of the
paper is to review the proposed definitions on the different elements that make
language a successful tool for communication, through an extensive discussion
of the different types of competences linked to language and language fluency.
The focus is on English as a foreign language and its use by learners with diffe�rent cultural backgrounds. The paper shows that foreign language proficiency
is possible only through simultaneous communicative and pragmatic compe�tence, as well as social and cultural awareness.