Iqra University

Course: Globalization and spread of English

Group:03
Topic: Speech repertoires (Code switching, code
mixing, diglossia)
Presenter: Muhammad Hussain
 Contents

• Objectives
• Code-switching
• Code-mixing
• Diglossia
 Objectives
By the end of this presentation, the learners will
be able:
• To know what is code-switching.
• Explore the functions of code-switching in
societies.
• Identify the forms of code-switching and
language maintenance.
• Define the challenges and strategies for code-
switching use in societies.
• To know about diglossia.
 Code-switching

Code-switching refers to the act of alternating

between two or more languages or dialects within a
single conversation or interaction. It is a linguistic
phenomenon that occurs in multilingual and
multicultural societies and holds great significance
in various social and cultural contexts.
 The function of code-switching

Code-switching serves multiple functions in

communication. It can be used to clarify and explain
concepts, express intimacy and solidarity, emphasize or
highlight points, convey politeness and respect, fill
linguistic gaps, quote or borrow expression, and shift
social roles.
 Code-switching serves various functions in
communication and social interaction.
Some common functions of code-switching.
• Accommodation.
Code-switching can be used to accommodate the linguistic abilities or preferences of
interlocutors. Speakers may switch to a shared language or dialect to establish rapport,
facilitate understanding, or create a sense of solidarity.
• Identity and solidarity
Code-switching can be a means of expressing or negating social identities. It allows speakers to
express their cultural, ethnic, or social identities. People may switch languages to align
themselves with a particular group, assert their cultural heritage, or demonstrate belonging.
• Clarification or explanation
Code-switching can serve as a clarifying or explanatory function explanation when certain
concepts or ideas are better expressed in one language over another. Speakers may switch
language to provide additional information, clarify a concept, or express a though more
effectively. It can bridge gaps in linguistics.
• Quotation or emphasis
Code-switching can be used to quote or emphasize specific words, phrases, or
idiomatic expressions from another language. It can add emphasis, convey a
particular tone, or highlight cultural references.
• Social and power dynamics
Code-switching can reflect social and power dynamics within a community. Speakers
may switch languages based on the formality of the situation, the status of the
interlocutors, or toassert dominance or affiliation with a particular social group.
• Emotional expression
Code-switching can be employed to convey emotions or attitudes that associated
with a particular language or cultural context. Speakers may switch languages to
express excitement, frustration, or playfulness.
 Forms of code-switching

Code-switching can take various forms in

communication. It can take various forms depending on
the linguistic and social context. These different forms of
code-switching allow individuals to manage their
multilingual environments and effectively communicate
their thoughts and ideas.
Inter-sentential switching
Inter-sentential code-switching is a form of code-
switching where language switches occur between
sentences or clauses.
For example:
Me tu yahan hoon. What happened?
Is kai bawjod hum nai yeh tajurba keya, it was very
dangerous.
Intra-sentential code-switching

Intra-sentential code-switching refers to the phenomenon

where speakers seamlessly switch between languages or
language varieties within a single sentence. It involves
incorporating words, phrases, or even grammatical
elements from different languages into the same sentence.
Examples:
In donu ko compare karo. (verb)
Kitna khoobsorat scence hai.(noun)
Awaam ko koi relief nahi mela. (noun)
 Tag switching
Tag switching is a form of code switching where speakers
incorporate a word or phrase from one language into a
predominantly different language conversation. It involves
using a tag or marker in one language while speaking
primarily in another language. Tag switching can serve various
purposes, such as adding emphasis, conveying emotion, or
signaling social identity. tag switches involve the insertion of
tag forms such as 'I mean', 'you know', 'isn't it?', etc.
e.g.
1. woh Panjab sai aya hai, you know.
2. os ko maloom hai. I mean ap nai batya tha. Didn’t you?
 Code-Mixing

Code mixing refers to the practice of blending elements

from two or more languages within a single utterance or
sentence. It involves using words, phrases, or
grammatical structures from different languages
interchangeable. Code mixing often occurs naturally in
bilingual or multilingual communities and serves as a
means of effective communication and cultural
expression.
 Is Code-switching the same as Code-mixing?

• We usually get confused between the terms code-

switching and code-mixing. In both terms, we jump
from one language to another to complete the
sentence by using phrases or clauses, but the minor
difference between both the terms is:
• Incode-switching, we intentionally use a second
language to make the conversation more effective.
Whereas in code-mixing, we unintentionally use a
second language. The reason is we may not know the
correct word or phrase to use in the sentence
 Challenges and strategies for code-switching:

Code-switching presents unique challenges that require

specific strategies for effective communication. To
overcome these challenges, individuals can employ
strategies such being aware of the context and audience,
practicing code-switching in different settings, and
developing a strong command of both languages
involved.
• Cognitive load
Code-switching can pose cognitive challenges, as individuals need to
constantly navigate between languages and maintain fluency in each.
Practice and exposure to different language contexts can help alleviate
this load.
• Contextual appropriateness
Understanding the appropriate contexts for code switching is crucial.
Different social situations may require different levels or types of code-
switching.
• Developing proficiency
Developing proficiency in multiple languages allows individuals to code-
switch effectively. Educational programs and language policies that
 Diglossia:

• The speaking of two or more languages by the

members of the same community.
• Two tongues in one society.
 Features of diglossia

Functionally distinct varieties:

(i) Two distinct varieties of the same language are used
in the community, with one regarded as high (or H)
variety and the other a low (or L) variety.
(ii) Each variety is used for quite distinct functions; H and
L complement each other. (iii) No one uses the H variety
in everyday conversation.
 High (H) Variety

• Formal, prestigious, associated with literature,

religion, education, and media.
• Often
standardized and codified, having stricter
grammar and vocabulary.
• May not be used in everyday conversation and
often lacks native speakers.
 Low (L) Variety:

• Informal, vernacular, used in everyday speech and

familiar interactions.
• More dynamic and evolving, reflecting the everyday
experiences of the community.
Mutual exclusivity:

• Each variety is reserved for specific domains and

rarely, if ever, crosses over.
• The H variety typically holds higher social prestige
and influence over the L variety.
Such as;
Arabic: Classical Arabic serves as the H variety for
religious texts and formal settings, while various
colloquial dialects like Egyptian or Moroccan Arabic are
the L varieties used in daily life.
 Implications:

• Diglossia raises interesting questions about power

dynamics, language standardization, and social
identity.
• It can hinder the development of the L variety and
create language barriers within the community.
• Understanding diglossia is crucial for effective
communication and policy decisions in linguistically
diverse societies.
Thank you.