Multilingual Global Cities: Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai

This volume explores the linguistic ecologies of Singapore, Hong Kong, and Dubai, combining empirical and theoretical approaches to sociolinguistics of multilingualism. It discusses key issues such as historical dimension, language policies and planning, contemporary societal multilingualism, multilingual language acquisition, and localized Englishes of global cities.

Format: Hardback
Length: 326 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive volume delves into the intricate linguistic ecologies of Singapore, Hong Kong, and Dubai, employing a blend of empirical and theoretical approaches to explore the sociolinguistics of multilingualism. A notable aspect of this publication is its five-part structure, which addresses critical topics such as the historical backdrop, language policies and planning, contemporary societal multilingualism, multilingual language acquisition, and the localized Englishes of global cities. The first four sections offer a multi-faceted and meticulously detailed account of the multilingual diversity prevalent in these three global cities, while the final section examines postcolonial Englishes within the framework of multilingual language acquisition and language contact.

Singapore, a vibrant city-state, boasts a rich linguistic tapestry that reflects its diverse population and historical influences. The city's multilingualism is evident in its official languages, English, Mandarin Chinese, and Malay, as well as its numerous regional languages and dialects. Each language community has its own unique customs, traditions, and cultural practices, contributing to the city's vibrant and dynamic linguistic landscape.

Hong Kong, another bustling metropolis, is characterized by its unique blend of Cantonese, Mandarin Chinese, English, and other regional languages. The city's history as a former British colony has played a significant role in shaping its multilingualism, with English being the dominant language for business, government, and education. Cantonese, however, remains the dominant language in the local community and is often used in informal settings and family gatherings.

Dubai, a rapidly growing city in the United Arab Emirates, is a melting pot of cultures and languages. Arabic, the official language of the UAE, is widely spoken, but English is also widely used due to its international significance and the city's role as a global hub. Other languages, such as Hindi, Urdu, and Persian, are also spoken by immigrant communities, reflecting the city's diverse population.

The sociolinguistics of multilingualism in these cities is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. Each language community has its own unique strategies for language maintenance, language shift, and language acquisition. Language policies and planning play a crucial role in shaping the linguistic landscape, with governments implementing measures to promote language diversity and to ensure the preservation of minority languages.

Multilingual language acquisition is a significant challenge in these cities, as children often grow up learning multiple languages simultaneously. This can lead to language mixing, code-switching, and language loss, particularly among younger generations who may be more fluent in English than their native languages. However, there are also positive aspects to multilingualism, such as increased cognitive flexibility, cultural awareness, and social mobility.

The localized Englishes of global cities, such as Singapore, Hong Kong, and Dubai, are also a topic of study in this volume. These forms of English are influenced by the local languages, cultures, and customs, and they vary in their grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. Localized Englishes are often used in specific contexts, such as business, education, or healthcare, and they play a significant role in promoting communication and cultural exchange.

In conclusion, this comprehensive volume provides a valuable insight into the linguistic ecologies of Singapore, Hong Kong, and Dubai. It explores the sociolinguistics of multilingualism through a multi-faceted and interdisciplinary approach, combining empirical research with theoretical frameworks. The volume's five-part structure allows for a thorough examination of key issues such as historical dimension, language policies and planning, contemporary societal multilingualism, multilingual language acquisition, and the localized Englishes of global cities. By examining the linguistic diversity and dynamics of these cities, this volume contributes to our understanding of the complex relationship between language, culture, and society in the modern world.

Weight: 660g
Dimension: 161 x 241 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138614857