Bilingualism:
* Definition: The ability to speak and understand two languages fluently.
* Key Point: It's the foundation for code switching. You need to know two languages to switch between them.
Code Switching:
* Definition: The practice of alternating between two or more languages within a single conversation.
* Key Point: It's a dynamic process that happens *within* a bilingual individual.
The Relation:
* Bilingualism Enables Code Switching: Code switching is only possible because the individual is bilingual. They have the linguistic knowledge to navigate both languages.
* Code Switching Reflects Bilingual Proficiency: The way a person code switches demonstrates their fluency in both languages.
* Code Switching is Not Just Random Language Mixing: It's often strategic, serving various purposes such as:
* Social Context: Adjusting language for different audiences or situations.
* Clarity: Using the language best suited to express a particular idea.
* Emphasis: Highlighting certain words or phrases.
* Humor: Creating playful or ironic effects.
Examples:
* A child raised in a bilingual household might speak to their parents in one language and to their friends in another.
* A teacher might explain a complex concept in a simpler language for their students.
* A politician might use a foreign language phrase to connect with a particular ethnic group.
In Conclusion:
Bilingualism is the base on which code switching is built. While bilingualism simply means knowing two languages, code switching is the active and often strategic use of both languages within communication.