What are 'fake friends' in language learning?

The concept of 'fake friends' in language learning refers specifically to words that appear similar in two different languages but have different meanings. This challenge can lead to confusion among learners. For instance, the English word "actual" means "real" or "true," while in Spanish, "actual" translates to "current" or "present." Despite their similar appearance, the meanings are distinct and can result in misunderstandings.

Understanding fake friends is crucial for language learners, as it helps them avoid potential pitfalls in communication and promotes greater accuracy in their language usage. By recognizing these deceptive similarities, learners can expand their vocabulary with correct meanings in context, ultimately improving their proficiency in the new language.