ABSTRACT
This chapter considers the role of language in everyday encounters from a pragmatic and a cultural perspective. The potential value of language acquisition vis-à-vis migrant incorporation and the way in which non-English speakers are accommodated is examined before further exploring individual strategies for dealing with cultural and language differences. The analysis considers the implications of retaining the language of origin, the circumstances where cultural boundaries are actively maintained, or indeed transformed, and the relationship between language and identities. Language has long been recognised as transcending communication. Retention of the native language is used by migrant families as part of a strategy of positive coping and parenting, such as improving parent–child communication while instilling knowledge and pride of migrants' heritage. Focusing mainly on language, the chapter explores the importance of language as a component of cultural accommodation in Northern Ireland.
