Urdu-English Code-Switching in Pakistani English

Abstract

This paper defines Urdu-English code switching, focusing on its classifications and on how its influence on Pakistani English has shaped the nation’s language identity. It highlights the manner in which code switching has left a mark on the communication dynamics of Pakistan. This is a qualitative form of research, more specifically, a textual analysis of the data that already exists in the realm of Pakistani English. Through it, attention has been brought to the different types of code switching that exist in language which include inter-sentential, intra-sentential and tag switching whose deeper analysis provides the reader with a better understanding of the English spoken in Pakistan. It also takes a look at the various types of Urdu phrases (noun and adjective phrases), tags and clauses utilised in Pakistani English, making communication easier and reflecting the cultural, social and linguistic aspects of Pakistani society.