Distinguishing between code switching in speech and writing, Indian newspapers and magazines are surveyed for instances of code switching from English into Hindi in journalistic texts. The causes for such practice are investigated, taking into account proposals in current theories of multilingualism. It is pointed out that whereas code switching in speech is perceived in India as a form of exclusion and change toward formality, code switching in writing serves the function of inclusion; a vast majority of readers feels more at ease when Hindi words pop up at regular intervals, producing the effect of informality. Writers utilize code switching as a stylistic strategy to generate humor, exhibit wit, engage in irony or euphemism, make puns, translate proverbs, emphasize key points, or achieve denotative and expressive accuracy. 5 References
