code-switching

American  

[kohd-swich-ing] / ˈkoʊdˌswɪtʃ ɪŋ /

noun

1. Linguistics. the alternating or mixed use of two or more languages, especially within the same discourse: Bilingual students were discouraged from code-switching during class.

   My grandma’s code-switching when we cook together always makes me feel connected to my family's roots.

   Bilingual students were discouraged from code-switching during class.

2. Sociolinguistics. the use of one dialect, register, accent, or language variety over another, depending on social or cultural context, to project a specific identity.

   Politicians use code-switching on the campaign trail to connect with their audience.

3. the modifying of one's behavior, appearance, etc., to adapt to different sociocultural norms.

   For many female Muslim students, code-switching from their home environment to that of school requires forgoing the hijab.

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Other Word Forms

• code-switch
  verb (used without object)

Etymology

Origin of code-switching

First recorded in 1955–60

Explanation

Code-switching is when you change how you talk or act depending on who you’re with — like going from texting your friends with emojis and memes to sending a more serious, emoji-free email to your teacher. Code-switching can be considered a social superpower because it's a sign that you can adapt to your surroundings and connect with others in different situations, avoiding potential misunderstandings and embarrassment. For example, you might playfully call your friends silly nicknames, but you’d definitely switch to more respectful language when addressing your school principal. Code-switching allows you to adapt to the expectations of each group. It’s a handy skill that ensures you don’t accidentally call your principal "Captain Fuzzypants."

Example Sentences

"We spoke a lot about code switching," Howard tells me.

From BBC • May 30, 2025

Some of what we did together had to do with code switching and code meshing.

From Salon • Apr. 15, 2023

English is the official language, but people also speak Spanish, often switching between the two in a form of code switching they call Llanito.

From BBC • Jan. 25, 2023

Musically and narratively, “Everything Rises” underlines the fact that Koh and Tines, as well as their creative partners, are constantly code switching, depending on where they are and whom they are with.

From New York Times • Oct. 13, 2022

Is he a dangerous, tormented individual who has mastered the tricky art of code switching to a near-sociopathic degree?

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 31, 2019