The Problem of Choosing the Language of Communication: Ukrainian Realities Cover Image

The Problem of Choosing the Language of Communication: Ukrainian Realities
The Problem of Choosing the Language of Communication: Ukrainian Realities

Author(s): Svitlana Sokolova
Subject(s): Comparative Linguistics, Sociolinguistics, Eastern Slavic Languages
Published by: Instytut Slawistyki Polskiej Akademii Nauk
Keywords: code switching; Ukrainian–Russian bilingualism; mass survey; territorial features; language compensation; language adaptation;

Summary/Abstract: The article analyses the situational change in the language behaviour (code switching) of representatives from different regions of Ukraine based on the data of a statistically significant mass survey of the adult population of different regions in 2017. The dependence of language behaviour on the language situation in a region is confirmed and certain patterns inherent in each of the regions are revealed. The use of the Ukrainian language has a similar dependence on the language situation in all regions, but at different levels: it is used more often when communicating with Ukrainian-speakers, officials, in education, etc. It is rarely used in the information sphere. The connection between the degree of Russification of a certain territory and the laws of language choice in a particular situation is revealed. The articles proposes using the results of mass surveys to study language behaviour through the prism of territorial features, which will help to pursue a balanced state language policy, adjusting tactics in accordance with regional language features.

  • Issue Year: 2022
  • Issue No: 22
  • Page Range: 1-17
  • Page Count: 17
  • Language: English