At which stage of language acquisition do learners typically have a vocabulary of about 6,000 words?

The stage of language acquisition known as advanced fluency is characterized by learners being able to use the language effectively and express themselves clearly, often with a vocabulary that can reach around 6,000 words. At this stage, individuals demonstrate a robust understanding of grammar and can engage in complex conversations. Their vocabulary is not only extensive but also nuanced, allowing for a deeper expression of ideas and emotions.

In contrast, other stages—such as preproduction, early production, and speech emergence—represent earlier phases of language development where vocabulary is more limited. During preproduction, learners may have a very minimal vocabulary, often recognizing and responding to a few words primarily when prompted. Early production allows for the use of simple sentences and phrases, but vocabulary typically remains below this level. Speech emergence marks a transition where learners begin to form more complex sentences and understand a larger vocabulary, yet it still does not reflect the extensive capability seen in advanced fluency.