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.