Analyzing Code-Switching Between Afaan Oromoo and English in Ethiopia: A Grammatical Perspective

Wakwoya, Mihiretu Tolosa and Deuchar, Margaret (2025) Analyzing Code-Switching Between Afaan Oromoo and English in Ethiopia: A Grammatical Perspective. ALKALMAZOTT NYELVTUDOMÁNY, 25 (1). pp. 104-121. ISSN 1587-1061

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Abstract

This pilot study investigates code-switching between Afaan Oromoo and English in informal community interactions in Dambi Dollo, Ethiopia, using the Matrix Language Frame (MLF) model. It is based on two audio recordings totaling 90 minutes of spontaneous conversations, which have been transcribed and analyzed. The MLF model’s principles were applied to identify the Matrix Language (ML) and Embedded Language (EL). Clauses are classified into monolingual and bilingual, with Afaan Oromoo predominantly governing syntactic structure, while English mainly serves as a lexical provider. The analysis highlights a strong preference for Afaan Oromoo in informal conversations, with Amharic and English playing minor roles. These findings contribute to understanding multilingualism in Ethiopia, demonstrating how linguistic structures and social factors influence bilingual communication. Keywords: Afaan Oromoo, Bilingualism, Code-switching, English, Matrix Language Frame (MLF) Model

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