Byelingual

Byelingual: When you speak two languages but start losing vocabulary in both of them 

Byelingualism refers to the gradual loss of proficiency and vocabulary in two languages that a person has previously known fluently. It is a phenomenon experienced by some bilingual individuals where their grasp of both languages deteriorates over time due to lack of active use.

Causes

Byelingualism commonly occurs when a bilingual person moves away from an environment where their second language was frequently used, such as immigrants adjusting to a new culture or students after returning from study abroad. Without ongoing immersion and practice, vocabulary and fluency in the second language begins fading. Simultaneously, words and nuances in the native tongue also grow rusty from disuse.

Over years or even months, the two languages start blending and contaminating each other. Vocabulary shrinks, grammar decays, and code-switching becomes more frequent. Eventually neither tongue is fully dominant nor feels natural, leading to struggles communicating complex ideas.

Effects

People experiencing byelingualism often complain of becoming "bad" at both languages. They avoid reading complex material or expressing technical concepts, feeling their diminished vocabulary hinders fluency. Simple words become frustratingly inaccessible.

Byelinguals may withdraw from conversational situations due to inadequate language skills, exacerbating the problem. Some describe themselves as feeling "between" two languages but masters of neither. It can negatively impact relationships, careers, and self-confidence.

Prevention

Regular use of each language helps prevent deterioration of bilingual mastery. Set aside dedicated time for reading, writing, speaking, and listening in both tongues. Media, social connections, language tutors and travel to different culture environments fosters active bilingualism.

So in summary, byelingualism is the concurrent erosion of fluency in two languages caused by reduced use. Maintaining proficiency requires ongoing efforts to use both tongues actively.