Integration of Various Approaches towards the Functions of Code-Switching between Punjabi, Urdu and English

Abstract

This paper aims at exploring the functions of code-switching between Punjabi, Urdu and English among multilingual Punjabi-Pakistanis staying in London through an integration of various approaches. The purpose in simultaneously applying a number of different approaches, under the umbrella term of macro-and micro-sociolinguistic perspectives, is to understand the multidimensional nature of these functions. The naturally occurring data used in this research was collected by an ethnographic-case-study approach and then analysed qualitatively according to various available approaches. This paper takes into consideration the constituents of multilingualism -the social function, role, speech community, status and norms of social usage of the languages and also conversational strategies adopted by the speakers. The result shows the diverse and asymmetric functions of code-switching among the participants.

A Sociolinguistic Investigation of the Code Switching Practices of Students Outside Classroom in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

“…The study showed that CS is used as features of discourse for emphasis and change of topic, which will help in exploring CS outside the classroom from discourse-oriented perspective. Alam (2011) while exploring the functions of CS in Punjabi, Urdu and English languages among the multilingual community of Pakistani staying in UK, has taken a different direction and approached CS from micro and macro perspectives. Data for the study was gathered by recording the interaction in a natural environment in kitchen and dining table through an ethnographic case study approach, which were then qualitatively analysed from both micro and macro perspectives.…”