Here's a breakdown of the meaning:
* Bi- means "two"
* Lingual refers to "language"
So, a bilingual person can use two languages effectively in both speaking and understanding. They can communicate naturally and comfortably in both languages, with a good grasp of grammar, vocabulary, and cultural nuances.
Examples of bilingualism:
* Someone who speaks both English and Spanish.
* Someone who is fluent in French and Mandarin Chinese.
* Someone who can communicate fluently in Arabic and German.
It's important to note:
* Bilingualism doesn't necessarily mean being equally proficient in both languages. A person might be more fluent in one language than the other.
* The level of fluency required to be considered bilingual can vary depending on the context. Some people might consider someone bilingual even if they have a basic understanding of a second language, while others might require a higher level of proficiency.