Sociolinguistic Features and Communicative Functions of Code-Switching in Bilingual Discourse: Contrasting Structural and Functional Approaches

This article examines the sociolinguistic features and communicative functions of code-switching in bilingual discourse. Drawing on the frameworks of Gumperz, Poplack, Myers-Scotton, Auer, and other prominent scholars, the study highlights the structural, social, and pragmatic dimensions of code-switching. Particular attention is paid to opposing scholarly perspectives-ranging from code-switching as a violation of grammatical norms to its recognition as a purposeful communicative strategy. The article argues that code-switching is not a reflection of linguistic deficiency but a sophisticated discourse mechanism that serves identity expression, relational management, and contextual adaptation.