Sociolinguistic perspectives on variation in non-native varieties of English: The case of Malaysian English

Abstract

Abstract This paper examines L2 variation by exploring the ways in which the English language is used in everyday communication in Malaysia. It begins with a review of how L2 variation has generally been treated and questions the imbalances perceived to underpin fundamental theoretical notions. Rejecting the traditional analysis of the language of L2 users in terms of transfer and interlanguage models in favour of the more robust communication accommodation theory, the article argues for the need to take account of multilingual realities as opposed to the prevailing monolingual orientation to linguistics in general. Data presented and analysed are taken from a case-study corpus comprising recordings of proficient Malaysian speakers interacting in naturalistic contexts. By combining macro- and micro- aspects of discourse, and triangulating various perspectives, including those of the analyst and the actors, the analysis seeks to describe and understand the nature of linguistic variation in the Malaysian context. Rather than concentrate on misunderstanding and linguistic handicap, the focus is on how language is used collaboratively, strategically, contextually and resourcefully to achieve the varying goals of speakers.

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