POLITENESS STRATEGIES IN DIGITAL CODE-SWITCHING, A PRAGMATIC ANALYSIS
Keywords:
Keywords: Digital code-switching, politeness strategies, pragmatics, bilingualism, social mediaAbstract
Abstract: This study investigates how politeness strategies are realized through
digital code-switching in bilingual and multilingual online interactions. By analyzing
500 social media posts, instant messaging conversations, and forum discussions, the
study identifies patterns in language alternation that reflect social relationships, respect,
and identity management. The findings reveal that speakers strategically use code-
switching to express positive politeness (solidarity and appreciation), negative
politeness (respect and mitigation of imposition), and off-record strategies (indirect
communication). Additionally, digital features such as emojis, hashtags, and
abbreviations significantly influence the use and interpretation of code-switching. The
study highlights the pragmatic importance of digital code-switching and its role in
maintaining effective, polite, and socially aware communication in online
environments.
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