Vueltaen el español ecuatoriano yasíen el español fronterizo mexicano: usos subjetivos e intersubjetivos

This study centers on two Spanish language discourse markers: así in the Spanish-English contact area along the U.S.-Mexico border and vuelta , a discourse marker used in Andean Spanish which is in contact with Ecuadorian Quichua. Applying Relevance Theory, we observe how these markers convey emergent pragmatic and intersubjective functions. Vuelta is able to function as an enumerator indexing iterativity and as a quotative framing indirect speech. Intersubjectively, it frames discourse to be read as either proud, persistent, or annoying. Así is associated with particular interactional stances of solidarity and politeness. Frequently used by young women signaling prestige, femininity, and socio-economic status, así indexes values and cultural practices similar to middle-class lifestyles from the U.S. This study argues that in order to understand linguistic permeability and interference in both of these uses, we must first understand speakers’ communicative and social needs within their bilingual community.