Gimtoji ir pirmoji kalba. Ar visada jos sutampa?
Native and First Language: Do They always Coincide?

Summary/Abstract: The article discusses a rather atypical situation when the native language is replaced by a second language due to international adoption. The broad overview presented is based on sociolinguistic research, while the detailed development of predicate usage and therefore the gradual construction of the verbal system of the new language is shown using data from a case study. The results obtained by both methods indicate that internationally adopted children quickly acquire the new language which gradually becomes the first (and most often, the only) children’s language. Being brought up in a amily where they are stimulated and encouraged gives them motivation to master the new language and allows them to become a full-fledged part of society.

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