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3. Code-switching
a. Definition of Code-switching
There have been many definitions of code-switching provided by different linguists. The writer quoted three of them written by Gardner 1997, Wardhaugh
1992, and Hoffman 1991. The writer adopted those definitions as the consideration of her own interpretation.
The first definition was taken from Gardner’s 1997. She states “code- switching can be defined as the use of two or more languages in the same
conversation or utterances” Gardner, 1997: 361. Since most people speak more than one language in their daily lives, therefore, Gardner 1997 explains that such
action is considered common in many parts of situations where people are native bilingual or multilingual. This explanation is supported by Duran’s 1994. He
states that in a multilingual context, code-switching is a common phenomenon. People who are capable in speaking two or more languages are consciously or
unconsciously substitute phrases or words of a language to another language. Code-switching may help a speaker of one language to support his thinking and
communication Duran, 1994. When he could not find representative word to explain something or simply is not able to utter particular expression in a
language, he may borrow phrases or words from another language to make his communication smooth.
Code-switching can also be defined as “a conversational strategy used to establish, cross or destroy group boundaries; to create, evoke or change
interpersonal relations with their rights and obligations” Wardhaugh, 1992: 103.
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In a circumstance where speakers of various languages are having the same necessity gather in one speech context, code-switching allows them to accomplish
their purpose effectively and understand each other better. He also states that “it is unusual for a speaker to have command of, or use,
only one such code or system” Wardhaugh, 1992: 103. Since, bilingualism and multilingualism are the norm for many people throughout the world, Gardner’s
1997 idea above is supported by Wardhaugh’s 1992 that people have to select a particular language whenever they speak and they may also choose to switch
from one language to another language or to mix the languages. In addition, Wardhaugh 1992 also states that people might not be aware that they switch or
using certain code to discuss a particular topic. The next definition of code-switching was written by Hoffmann 1991. She
says that code-switching “involves the alternate use of two languages or linguistic varieties within the same utterance or during the same conversation” Hoffmann,
1991: 110. Based on the above definitions, the writer defines: “code-switching as a
common behavior of people using more than one language in the same conversation in bilingual or multilingual situations”.
b. The Types of Code-switching
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