Code-Switching and Its Sociolinguistic Implications: A Study of Multilingual Communication in Urban Contexts
Keywords:
code-switching, multilingualism, sociolinguistics, identity, language contact, pragmatics, urban linguisticsAbstract
In the age of globalization and increased mobility, multilingualism has become a defining feature of urban societies across the globe. One of the most prominent linguistic behaviors observed in such settings is code-switching, the alternating use of two or more languages or dialects within a single conversation, sentence, or even phrase. This article explores code-switching as a sociolinguistic phenomenon, analyzing its structural patterns, functional roles, and socio-cultural implications. Drawing on real-life data from multilingual speakers in New York, Mumbai, and Johannesburg, the study investigates how code-switching reflects identity, social alignment, power dynamics, and contextual adaptation. The article also explores public attitudes toward code-switching and the influence of media and education on its perception. The research reveals that far from being a sign of linguistic incompetence, code-switching is a sophisticated and strategic tool that multilingual speakers use to navigate complex social landscapes.
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