Neural Mechanisms of Second-Language Sentence Processing: An ERP Study of Semantic and Syntactic Integration

Abstract

Background: Understanding how second-language (L2) learners process sentences is a key topic in neurolinguistics and cognitive neuroscience. Sentence comprehension involves the rapid integration of lexical, semantic, and syntactic information, supported by complex neural processes. Event-related potentials (ERPs), particularly the N400 and P600 components, are widely used to examine semantic and syntactic processing during language comprehension.

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the neural mechanisms underlying second language sentence processing among university EFL learners through ERP measures associated with semantic and syntactic processing.

Method: A quantitative quasi-experimental design was employed involving 60 undergraduate EFL students. Participants completed sentence comprehension tasks containing semantic anomalies and syntactic violations while electroencephalography (EEG) recordings were collected. ERP analyses focused on N400 and P600 amplitudes and latencies. Behavioral measures included comprehension accuracy and reaction times.

Results: The findings showed that semantic anomalies elicited larger N400 amplitudes, reflecting increased semantic integration demands, whereas syntactic violations produced enhanced P600 responses, indicating syntactic reanalysis and repair. Behavioral data revealed lower comprehension accuracy and longer reaction times for anomalous than for grammatically correct sentences. Additionally, stronger ERP responses were associated with higher levels of language proficiency.

Conclusion: The study demonstrates that second-language sentence processing engages distinct neural mechanisms for semantic and syntactic integration. These findings support contemporary neurolinguistic theories and highlight the value of ERP measures in revealing real-time language processing and the neurocognitive foundations of second-language acquisition.