The Megrelian-Georgian Diglossia. Switching and Mixing of Codes

Abstract

In Georgia, the Kartvelian language family includes Georgian, Svan, Megrelian, and Laz. Among them, Georgian is the official state language, while the others are used primarily within families. Traditionally, diglossic relationships have formed between Georgian and the other Kartvelian languages: Georgian–Svan, Georgian–Megrelian, and Georgian–Laz. This article analyzes the Georgian–Megrelian diglossia in two directions: a) the sociocultural domains in which Megrelian and Georgian are spoken and used; b) the typical switching patterns and mechanisms of code-mixing during natural speech. The study is mainly based on surveys and interviews conducted in the Samegrelo region of western Georgia in March and April of 2023. Additionally, other published materials have been used. The first part of the findings discusses code use and proficiency within the framework of traditional diglossic identity: “I am Megrelian” (contextual identity), and “ultimately, I am Georgian” (absolute identity). Code usage is analyzed across categories such as: at home, in the community, and in formal institutions. Attention is also given to psycho-emotional motivations behind code-switching. The second part of the paper discusses the social and functional basis for code-switching, including narrative role differentiation, citation, domain of activity, and more. While distinguishing between code-switching and code-mixing in Georgian–Megrelian speech is often difficult, the article attempts to make such distinctions at the phrase, sentence, lexical, and morphemic levels.