What are metalinguistic skills?

Metalinguistic skills refer to the abilities that enable individuals to think about and analyze language as a system. This includes understanding how language works, the rules governing its structure, and the ability to reflect on language in a more abstract manner. Such skills are crucial for various aspects of communication, including reading comprehension, problem-solving in language use, and understanding the nuances of meaning and context.

This form of skill allows individuals to engage in tasks such as distinguishing between different phonetic sounds, recognizing synonyms and antonyms, and understanding grammatical constructs. Metalinguistic awareness enhances one's ability to learn new languages and improve language proficiency because it helps individuals to become conscious of the mechanics of language.

Other options do not encompass the broader scope of what metalinguistic skills entail. Enhancing vocabulary, focusing solely on pronunciation, or being restricted to writing do not provide the comprehensive analytical capability characteristic of metalinguistic skills.