6.5 Code-mixing and code-switching

Question 1

Script

Answer 1

A script is a set of written characters or symbols that are used to represent the spoken words of a language.
Synonyms: language script, writing system.

Question 2

Code-switching

Answer 2

the alternation of languages between utterances, for example, one sentence in Urdu, the next one in English.

Question 3

Code-mixing

Answer 3

the mixing of languages within a phrase or sentence, for example, English sentences containing words in Urdu or Punjabi.

Question 4

What are some possible reasons to switch and mix languages?

Answer 4

There are many possible reasons for speakers to switch and mix languages.
Cheng (2003, p. 62) identifies ten different reasons, including the lack of a particular word in one of the languages; the fact that activities that have only been experienced in one of the languages are more easily expressed in that language; or that certain concepts are easier to express in one of the languages. Some words may also be more distinguishable and easier to use in
one of the languages. Speakers may switch languages in order to clarify a
misunderstanding, or to create a certain communication effect; for example, when repeating what somebody else said using the same language they used.
People also tend to continue speaking the last language to be used (this is known as the ‘trigger effect’). As you have seen, code-switching can also be used in order to make a point, or when you want to express group solidarity.
On some occasions, speakers may even switch to a different language in order to exclude another person from the conversation.

Question 5

Trigger effect

Answer 5

People tend to continue speaking the last language to be used