Revisiting the Classic Codeswitching–Composite Codeswitching Distinction

A Case Study of Nonverbal Predication in Ewe–English Codeswitching

Bibliographic Data

ID12059239
AuthorsEvershed Kwasi Amuzu (0000-0001-9955-0202, Australian National University, corresponding author)
Year2005
Volume25
Issue1
Pages127-151
Publication date2005-04-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueAustralian Journal of Linguistics (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0726-8602 • E-ISSN: 1469-2996
PublisherTaylor & Francis (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/07268600500113690
OpenAlexW2026268597
LanguageEN
Citations received4
References cited10

This paper concerns the distribution of English-origin nonverbal predicative elements in mixed constructions in Ewe–English codeswitching. It assumes Myers-Scotton's ideas of Matrix Language (ML) and confronts the question What is the ML in the mixed constructions? In an attempt to answer this question, the paper explores two types of ML hypothesis: Ewe-only ML hypothesis and a composite ML hypothesis. The two hypotheses share common assumptions and subtle similarities while differing with regard to a few crucial theoretical considerations that by and large determine which of the two adequately and satisfactorily answers the research question. The paper demonstrates that the composite ML hypothesis answers the research question better, a finding which marks a departure from the traditional way of looking at Ewe–English codeswitching (CS) as Classic CS. We will also briefly survey analogous CS patterns in Akan–English CS to underscore the implications of the finding for CS research being carried out within Myers-Scotton's framework

Linguistics · Matrix (chemical analysis · Nonverbal communication · Predicative expression · Sociology · Language, Discourse, Communication Strategies · Multilingual Education and Policy · Philosophy · Psychology · Second Language Learning and Teaching

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