English–Greek code-switching in Greek Cypriot magazines and newspapers – an analysis of its textual forms and functions

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper discusses the textual position, form, and functions of English–Greek code-switching, which occurs in the form of insertions, in Greek Cypriot print media. The data consist of seven magazines and seven newspapers. For the analysis of the data, a theoretical framework for written multilingualism is adopted and adapted, namely “English on top”. The presence of English in the mainstream Cypriot print media is scarce. Code-switching into English mainly takes the form of naming, heading, quotations, set phrases, and doublets; a doublet refers to the use of a word next to its translation in another language. It exhibits a variety of functions such as language play, emphasis, and clarification. This is not always the case, however. In some cases, no specific textual function can be attributed to the English insertions. In such cases, it is the symbolic and/or indexical function of English that is exploited.