What learning a second language does to your first language
From RTÉ Brainstorm by RTÉ
March 4, 2026 · 6 min
About this episode
This episode explores the potential negative impacts of learning a second language on one's first language.
You have probably heard all the positives about learning a second language. So, what’s the catch? Well, learning a new language might actually cause you to lose parts of your first language.
Topics covered
- language learning
- first language
- second language
- cognitive effects
- language retention
Keywords
- second language
- first language
- language loss
- bilingualism
- cognitive effects
More episodes of RTÉ Brainstorm
- 'Cash is here to stay': why cash is king in emergency planning · June 9, 2026 · 7 min
- What is ‘house burping’ – and is it good for your health? · June 3, 2026 · 7 min
- Why are pints so pricey in Ireland? · May 27, 2026 · 7 min
- What’s really in the air Dubliners breathe? · May 6, 2026 · 6 min
- Why a 115kg stone from Waterford is finding a new home in Boston · April 22, 2026 · 7 min
- The inside story of Dublin’s blood and guts economy · April 15, 2026 · 8 min
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the RTÉ Brainstorm podcast page.