Josiane Boutet’s sociolinguistic contributions in context

Abstract Josiane Boutet is a key figure in French sociolinguistics, known for her pioneering work on language practices and their intersection with power, education, and the workplace. This paper explores the intellectual and historical contexts of her contributions, highlighting her commitment to interdisciplinarity, empirical rigor, and politically engaged sociolinguistics. From her early research in the 1970s to her ongoing work in the 2020s, Josiane Boutet has consistently bridged theoretical innovation with practical applications, addressing issues of social inequality and language policy. This article examines the enduring legacy and contemporary relevance of Josiane Boutet’s approach to language as social practice.