Impact of Urdu Language on the Lexical Choice of Dhanni Dialect on Students at the University of the Chakwal

This study investigates the sociolinguistic dynamics between the Dhanni and Urdu languages in Pakistan, focusing on how Urdu impacts Dhanni. The study pursues a mixed-method research methodology to establish the subjects’ language skills and use them in a home environment, work environment, social situations, and encounters. A sample of 150 adult participants has been used to complete structured questionnaires to gather the data. Demographic factors, English and Urdu fluency, and participants’ views about the effect of Urdu on Dhanni are investigated in the study. Moreover, reliability and correlation were employed as statistical means to enhance the validity of the findings. The findings confirm the differences in the use of the language and its proficiency, while 13 young participants claim they speak Urdu fluently. Therefore, all participants employ both languages at home, in professional settings, and with their friends; however, Urdu is mainly used with friends. Reacting to the influence of Urdu on Dhanni, the opinions are positive, neutral, and negative, as described in the study. These outcomes enrich the knowledge of the interrelations between Dhanni and Urdu about the cultural and social context of language switch in bicultural populations.