Are Extroverts Better Language Learners?

The short answer is no, but your personality type will definitely influence the way you approach language learning and the skills you excel at.

Extroverts are likely eager to put their new language to use as early as possible. They often develop fluency quickly, take more risks by initiating conversations, benefit from immersion through social interactions, and worry less about making mistakes.

Introverts, on the other hand, have their own set of superpowers. They tend to be reflective learners who make sure they thoroughly understand a structure or phrase before using it. They take accuracy seriously, have strong language awareness, and often thrive in structured courses and classes. Introverts typically focus on producing high-quality language.

Some studies suggest a correlation between temperament and performance in different language skills. For instance, research on Chinese ESL learners found that extroverts performed better in speaking and reading, while introverts excelled in listening. Another study showed that introverts tend to perform better in accuracy-driven tasks like formal writing. However, neither group consistently outperforms the other in terms of overall language proficiency.

Practical takeaways

It is important to understand what type of learner you naturally are. Bear this in mind next time you feel tempted to compare yourself to another language user.

You will naturally gravitate towards learning strategies that match your temperament - they will feel safe and comfortable to use. There is nothing wrong with that - in fact, doing what feels right will ensure long term commitment to your language goals, which is the primary predictor of language learning success.

If you feel you’re improving in some areas but falling behind in others, consider stepping out of your language learning comfort zone.If you’re an introvert who enjoys structured, reflective learning, consider trying a speaking club. It may feel intimidating, but it will help you grow. If you’re an extrovert who thrives in interactive settings, spend time with books and exercises to improve the quality of your output.

Most importantly, though - have fun learning.

Sources to explore:

Who learns foreign language better, introverts or extroverts?

Relationship Between Introversion/Extroversion Personality Trait and Proficiency in ESL Writing Skills