What does code-switching refer to in linguistics?

Code-switching in linguistics refers to the practice of alternating between two or more languages or language varieties within a conversation or discourse. This practice often occurs among bilingual or multilingual speakers who switch languages depending on the context, setting, or even the topic of discussion.

In social and linguistic contexts, code-switching can serve various purposes, such as signaling identity, expressing cultural affiliation, or adapting to the audience. It allows speakers to express themselves more fully or to convey meanings that might not be as easily expressed in one language alone. The acknowledgment of this phenomenon highlights the dynamic nature of language use in social interactions, revealing how individuals navigate their linguistic repertoires.

Other choices, while related to linguistic concepts, do not capture the essence of code-switching. For example, the formation of new words pertains to processes like compounding or derivation, emotional associations deal with semantics, and the evolution of words relates to historical linguistics. Code-switching specifically emphasizes the practice of using multiple languages in interaction, making option B the most accurate choice.