AN ANALYSIS OF SINDHI-ENGLISH CODE-SWITCHING AMONG SINDHI-SPEAKING COMMUNITIES

Abstract

Code-switching, the switching of two languages in the same conversation, is a very common occurrence in bilingual societies. The available pieces of research findings indicate that there are pragmatic and social grounds for code switching. Pragmatically, speakers have a way of switching languages that has the potential of filling the lexical gaps that prevail in languages, to expound something or be more emphatic. Change in language at the social level may imply belongingness, unity, or differentiation. English too brings with it connotations of modernization, openness to the outside world, and educational competency amongst the Sindhi-English bilinguals, and this is conjoined with the Sindhi that has its own connotation of belonging to their culture, being close, and being local. This was the duality that brought about the strategic nature of the code-switching as communicative prowess and maneuverability in social realities. Data were gathered using a mixed-method, involving 100 participants who were interviewed using structured questions, filled out questionnaires, and observed directly. Results show that educational background, work environment, interaction with peers, and social prestige affect code-switching. Modern ideas, technical languages, or to show prestige are frequently expressed in English. This paper has pointed out the notion of code-switching as a strategic communicative process and not a language weakness, and how the process is used in identity construction, communication in education, and social life. The study has implications for bilingual education, language policy, and sociolinguistic knowledge of urban Sindhi-English speakers.