Background of the study
Business meetings in Nigeria are a microcosm of the nation’s multilingual reality, where effective communication is essential for decision-making. Pragmatic efficiency in these contexts is often achieved through code-switching—the alternating use of two or more languages—which serves as a tool to manage social relationships and convey nuanced meaning. This study evaluates the pragmatic efficiency of code-switching in Nigerian business meetings by analyzing recorded interactions from various corporate settings. It investigates how participants use code-switching to negotiate power dynamics, express politeness, and clarify complex ideas (Nwankwo, 2023). The research employs discourse analysis to examine the frequency, context, and impact of language alternation on meeting outcomes. Additionally, it considers the influence of factors such as speaker roles, meeting formality, and industry type on code-switching practices. By linking linguistic behavior with business performance, the study aims to provide actionable insights that can inform corporate communication training and policy development, ensuring that language practices contribute to more effective and efficient business operations (Ogun, 2024; Adetola, 2025).
Statement of the problem
Despite the importance of code-switching in facilitating effective communication during Nigerian business meetings, there is limited research on its pragmatic efficiency. The inconsistent use of multiple languages can lead to misunderstandings and reduced meeting productivity, yet its specific impact on business outcomes is underexplored. This research gap hampers the development of effective communication guidelines and training programs tailored to Nigeria’s multilingual corporate environment (Nwankwo, 2023).
Objectives of the study:
1. To document code-switching practices in business meetings.
2. To evaluate their effect on pragmatic efficiency.
3. To propose strategies for improved multilingual communication.
Research questions:
1. What patterns of code-switching occur in business meetings?
2. How do these practices affect clarity and efficiency?
3. What improvements can be made to optimize communication?
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it provides critical insights into the role of code-switching in enhancing pragmatic efficiency during Nigerian business meetings. The findings will aid corporate trainers and policymakers in developing targeted communication strategies that foster clearer, more effective interactions (Adetola, 2025).
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study is confined to Nigerian business meetings and does not extend to informal interactions or other professional contexts.
Definitions of terms:
1. Pragmatic Efficiency: The effectiveness of language use in achieving communicative goals.
2. Code-Switching: Alternating between languages in conversation.
3. Business Meetings: Formal gatherings for corporate communication.
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