Reconsidering the Distinction between English for Specific Purposes (ESP) and English for General Purposes (EGP) - Towards a Unified Perspective

Abstract

This article critically examines the distinction between English for Specific Purposes (ESP) and English for General Purposes (EGP) within language teaching contexts. It argues that the traditional dichotomy between ESP and EGP is inadequate and proposes a unified perspective. The rationale behind this argument is that all English language teaching experiences involve specificity, as learners’ language needs are influenced by their particular goals, domains, and contexts. The article challenges the prevailing assumptions and highlights the limitations of the ESP vs. EGP dichotomy. The key findings reveal that the boundaries between ESP and EGP are blurred and that considering all English language teaching as ESP provides a more comprehensive and inclusive approach. This reevaluation has significant implications for language pedagogy, curriculum design, and teacher training, urging a shift in perspective toward recognizing the specific nature of all language learning and teaching contexts.