“
For example, ESL in the USA might consist of someone from Mexico or China that is living in the USA but doesnt speak English well or even at all.
The problem with the ESL acronym is that over time, people have used it to refer to anyone in the world learning English as a second language. The correct acronym for ESL outside a native English speaking country would actually be EFL English as a Foreign Language. Here is a list that is not exhaustive on the ESL acronyms, but itll give you a good understanding of the amount and variety of acronyms in the ESL world. And even though there are already quite a few, it seems there are still being more added as we speak. Ugh! Here are a few of the ESL acronyms I know of, but there are more;
BE Business English EAL English as an additional language.
The use of this term is restricted to certain countries. EAP English for academic purposes EFL English as a foreign language. English for use in a non-English-speaking region, by someone whose first language is not English.
EIL English as an international language ELL English language learner. Only a few countries in the world use this. ELT English language teaching. The use of this term is restricted to certain countries.
“
Source: (teaching english abroad) http://esljobfair.com/teaching-esl/04/18/