CHAPTER 5 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Interesting that when comparing function-related language use tendencies
to participant-related tendencies, we can see a considerably higher rate of
using Hungarian and a lower rate of using English than in the participant¬
related domain. Having examined function-related language use more closely,
we have found noticeable differences between language use tendencies and
intergenerational affiliation.
G1 speakers in descending order of freguency use Hungarian for counting
(3), personal thinking (2.8), discussing personal feelings (2.7), abstract
thinking, self-talk, expressing anger (each 2.6). Ihey use English for discussing
job-related issues (2), discussing educational (1.7) and political issues (1.5).
Mixed language use emerges when dreaming, in the case of abstract thinking
(0.9 each), when expressing fear, discussing personal feelings and educational
issues (0.8 each).
Table 14: Functional language use
What language do you use when ...? Hungarian | English Mixed
counting 2.7 1.4 0.6
praying 2.2 0.8 0.3
thinking about abstract problems 2.2 1.4 0.8
dreaming 2 1.4 0.9
thinking about personal issues 2.5 1.4 0.7
talking to yourself 2.4 1.4 0.6
cursing 1.8 1.1 0.4
telling a joke 2 1.6 0.6
expressing fear or anxiety 2.3 1.1 0.7
expressing anger 2.4 1.2 0.6
talking to your pet 1.9 0.9 0.5
discussing personal feelings 2.5 1.3 0.7
discussing job-related issues 1.7 1.9 0.7
discussing educational issues 2 1.7 0.8
discussing political issues 1.9 1.5 0.7
Among G2 speakers, the use of English is more prevalent than Hungarian
especially for the following functions: telling a joke (2.8), counting and abstract
thinking (2.6), personal thinking (2.5), and dreaming (2.3). Ihey use Hungarian