Linguistic Dexterity In Multilingual Algeria: Code-switching As Strategic Communication Among Kabylian Women In Chlef

Abstract

This inquiry considers code-switching behaviours among Algerian speakers, with particular focus on Kabylian women in the city of Chlef. While the broader research project involved 124 participants, this paper presents a detailed conversation analysis of 6 strategically selected participants to deploy multilingual repertoires to negotiate identities and social power dynamics. Research unveils that the choices of women are not determinative in situations but rather goal-directed negotiations of their own rights and obligations. Natural code-switching occurrences across various social contexts have been documented while maintaining non-interference with authentic speech patterns. Follow-up interviews demonstrate participants' awareness of their language-alternation patterns, motivations, and attitudes toward code switching. The findings report that code-switching in Algeria serves dual pragmatic and socio-cultural functions, providing technical precision in academic contexts while simultaneously conveying identity positions. Thus, Women exhibit contextual awareness by limiting Kabyle usage around non-Berber speakers while relying on Algerian Arabic as their foundational language across both private and public domains