Cross-language influences in the processing of L2 multi-word expressions

The present chapter provides a state-of-the-art review of research into cross-language influences in the processing of multi-word expressions (MWEs) in a second language (L2). Two lines of research are considered: first, how L2 speakers process congruent MWEs versus L2-only MWEs; second, how L2 speakers process L1-only MWEs translated into the L2 compared with control phrases. Studies have shown that congruent MWEs generally have a processing advantage over L2-only MWEs in L2 speakers. In contrast, evidence is mixed with regard to whether or not translated L1-only MWEs exhibit a processing advantage over matched controls in L2 speakers, with facilitation so far observed for idioms, but not for other types of MWEs. We consider possible reasons for these mixed findings.