EXPLORING CODE-SWITCHING PRACTICES AMONG URDU–ENGLISH BILINGUAL SPEAKERS IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

This study examines the social and emotional motivations underlying code-switching in everyday bilingual
interactions in Pakistan. It aims to investigate why bilingual speakers alternate between languages in daily life
and how such practices reflect identity construction, emotional expression, politeness, humor, and social
relationships. The study challenges the perception of code-switching as a linguistic deficiency and instead
frames it as a purposeful and meaningful communicative practice. A qualitative descriptive research design was
adopted to explore natural language behavior. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews from 15
bilingual young adults aged 18–35 who regularly use Urdu and English in informal, educational, and
professional settings. The data were analyzed thematically, drawing on the theoretical framework of situational
and metaphorical code-switching to interpret social and emotional language choices. The findings reveal that
code-switching is strategically employed to manage context, express emotions, negotiate identity, maintain
politeness, build social bonds, and regulate power relations. Urdu was commonly associated with emotional
intimacy and cultural affiliation, while English was linked to professionalism, authority, and formality. These
findings contribute to sociolinguistic theory by reinforcing the view of bilingual language use as dynamic and
context-sensitive.