ABSTRACT
This study aims to investigate the phenomenon of code-switching among bilingual English and Yoruba speakers in informal settings. It seeks to identify the various types of code-switching used among Yoruba-English speakers in informal settings, analyze the communicative functions and purposes of code-switching among Yoruba-English speakers in informal interactions, and lastly, examine the sociolinguistic factors that influence this practice.The methodology for this research involved a qualitative approach that captures the meanings of language use in naturalistic contexts. Data collection took place in informal settings such as community gatherings, social media interactions, and casual conversations among friends and family. To ensure comprehensive data, a combination of participant observation and audio recordings was employed. Participant observation allows the researcher to engage with the speakers, fostering a comfortable environment that encourages natural code-switching. Audio recordings provided a reliable record of language use, capturing various instances of code-switching in real time. The participants were selected through purposive sampling, targeting bilingual individuals fluent in both English and Yoruba. The research uses the Matrix Language Frame Model (MLFM) theory framework by Myers-Scotton (1993) for its analysis. The findings revealed that the various types of code-switching used among Yoruba-English speakers in informal settings are tag switching, inter-sential code-switching and intra-sentential code-switching. Also, Yoruba expressions are inserted as tags in English sentences to express emotions, empathy, and cultural details. The language is used at sentence boundaries for emotional or culturally specific expression. Its phrases are embedded within English sentences for emphasis, emotional expression, or cultural specificity. Lastly, Yoruba is used to communicate cultural ideas and establish social identity. The language is preferred for conveying strong emotions like anger, affection, or frustration. Code-switching is common in informal settings (e.g., with friends or family), reflecting ease and familiarity with both languages. The type of relationship (e.g., friends, lovers) influences the frequency and type of code-switching, with more intimate relationships encouraging greater use of Yoruba.
