Code-Switching

What is code-switching? Code-switching occurs when multilingual individuals mix or switch between two or more languages. As reported by ASHA, it is a natural occurrence for multilingual speakers. A person who code-switches may switch vocabulary or mix syntax. Today, we will look into Konglish (Korean + English) — more specifically some everyday English words that Koreans use but are pronounced differently.

As a Korean-American, I often code-switch the pronunciation of certain English words when speaking to Koreans. For example, I pronounce “vitamin” as “bitamin” when speaking to Korean speakers. Let’s review some more below.

1. Target Word

   a. International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA)

   b. Number of sounds | Number of syllables

Words with “f” or “v” Sounds

1. Fork

   a. /fɔrk/

   b. 3 sounds | 1 syllable

2. Sofa

   a. /ˈsoʊ.fə/

   b. 4 sounds | 2 syllables

3. Self (self-service)

   a. /ˈsɛlf.ˈsɝ.vəs/

   b. 9 sounds | 3 syllables

4. France

   a. /fræns/

   b. 5 sounds | 1 syllable

5. Vitamin

   a. /ˈvaɪ.tə.mɪn/

   b. 7 sounds | 3 syllables

Self-reflect: What English words do you use frequently in your native language? Do you pronounce those words differently when you are with native English speakers versus when you are with people who speak your native language?