Speaker perceptions of Singlish
- Nicholas Marsh, University of Oxford
- Glendinning Lecture Theatre 2D67, UWE Bristol
The aim of this investigation is to clarify the sociolinguistic status of Colloquial Singapore English (CSE), otherwise known as Singlish. Using original data personally collected by surveying English-speaking Singaporeans in 2012, it will firstly consider whether Singlish exists in a lectal continuum or in a diglossic relationship with Standard Singapore English.
Building on these findings, it will then attempt to compare popular attitudes towards CSE within the speech community, with the official, anti-Singlish government line propagated in recent years. By tackling these two issues my investigation will, in light of previous scholarship, construct a clearer picture of Singlish’s current status and future usage.
Building on these findings, it will then attempt to compare popular attitudes towards CSE within the speech community, with the official, anti-Singlish government line propagated in recent years. By tackling these two issues my investigation will, in light of previous scholarship, construct a clearer picture of Singlish’s current status and future usage.