Exploring Functionality of Code Switching in the Conversations of Transgenders in Pakistan

Abstract

Code-switching, which refers to switching between languages in a dialogue, discussion, or script, is a natural linguistic phenomenon. In talks between Pakistani transgender people, this study examines the usage of marked and unmarked options as well as the sociolinguistic functions and patterns of Urdu-English code-switching. Data for this study was obtained from YouTube in the form of audio recordings of interviews. In the current study, twelve recorded interviews made up the sample. The quantitative approach was utilized to identify marked and unmarked options in transgender people's interactions. The unmarked code-switching functions of reprimand, expansion, emphasis, comedy, clarification, confirmation, self-expression, social identity, diverting attention, changing subject, and finding difficulties in words were examined using the markedness Model of Myers-Scotton (1993). From the transcripts of the recorded interviews, instances of unmarked code selections were discovered. The research's findings show that codeswitching was not only a factor in social gatherings but also developed into a fashion statement in Pakistani culture; it was regarded as an appropriate method for giving discussions their intended meanings. The study recommends that while doing any type of social research Transgenders should also be kept in mind. They should also be incorporated as the population in different socio-cultural and socio-lingual research.