Charting the diverging paths

Abstract

Phrasal verbs (PVs) play an important role in informal and idiomatic communication for learners studying abroad. This multiple-case study tracked four Chinese learners in the United Kingdom over three timepoints in one academic year to investigate changes in their L2 contact and their PV gains. To assess their comprehension and production of PVs, students completed a receptive and productive PV test and an IELTS speaking test three times in a year. To understand changes in their L2 contact and social networks, each participant was also interviewed three times in a year. Results showed that PV development was achieved regardless of the sources of students’ L2 contact: either from social interactions or intentional self-study. Interview data revealed that those engaged in L2 socialization acquired PVs unconsciously and more effortlessly than self-study. This study highlighted the diverging paths of individuals’ study abroad experiences and how such experiences affected students’ formulaic language knowledge.