What does the term "language output hypothesis" refer to according to Krashen?

The term "language output hypothesis" refers to the idea that producing language—speaking or writing—plays a crucial role in language acquisition. According to Stephen Krashen, this hypothesis suggests that generating language output helps learners notice gaps in their knowledge, leading to deeper language processing and ultimately aiding in language development. Through practice and the act of using language, learners become more aware of grammatical structures and vocabulary, which facilitates their learning.

This understanding emphasizes that simply receiving language input (listening and reading) is not sufficient for mastery; engaging actively through output reinforces the learning process. Therefore, the concept captures the essence of how learners utilize what they know and what they still need to learn, fostering growth through active engagement with the language.