The Impact of Semantic Inference Ability on Discourse Comprehension Among Japanese Language Learners

Abstract

Semantic inference ability plays a pivotal role in discourse comprehension for Japanese language learners, serving as a bridge between linguistic input and meaningful interpretation. Although this topic has garnered significant attention in second language acquisition research, the specific cognitive and linguistic mechanisms of its influence on discourse comprehension, as well as the differences among learners with diverse native languages, remain underexplored. This study examines the relationship between semantic inference ability and other influencing factors, while also addressing how cultural differences arising from varying native language backgrounds manifest in the research. The findings reveal a multidirectional interaction among semantic inference ability, lexical knowledge, and grammatical knowledge, collectively shaping discourse comprehension outcomes. For learners with different native languages, effective pedagogical interventions and strategy training can help leverage individual strengths to enhance semantic inference efficacy. In conclusion, this study highlights the significance of semantic inference in Japanese learners' discourse comprehension, offering new perspectives and pathways for future teaching and research.