Digital Code-Switching: Language Use in Online Communication

Abstract

This article explores the phenomenon of digital code-switching, focusing on how multilingual individuals use multiple languages in online communication across platforms such as social media, messaging apps, and discussion forums. Drawing on recent studies and real-world data, it examines the structural patterns, motivations, and sociolinguistic implications of code-switching in digital contexts. The article also addresses the challenges of analyzing and modeling code-switched discourse in computer-mediated environments and highlights its relevance for identity construction, audience interaction, and educational practices. By situating digital code-switching within broader linguistic and technological frameworks, the article contributes to a deeper understanding of multilingual communication in the digital era.