PAKISTANI ENGLISH AND STANDARD ENGLISHES: CONFLICT OR COEXISTENCE?

Abstract

The rise of Pakistani English (PakE) has generated debate over its role in relation to Standard Englishes. This study examines whether PakE represents a legitimate linguistic adaptation that reflects Pakistan’s cultural identity or whether it poses challenges to global intelligibility and English language standards. Using a quantitative cross-sectional design, data were collected from 80 sixth-grade students in public and private schools through a structured questionnaire and an English proficiency test. Findings show that while 51.2% of students expressed a preference for PakE over British English (48.8%), most participants regarded it as a potential threat to established standards. Notably, no significant influence of native language on PakE exposure was observed, indicating its wide reach. However, higher exposure to PakE correlated with reduced competence in Standard English. The study underscores the need for educational initiatives that balance cultural linguistic identity with international standards to ensure effective global communication.