English Language and Cultural Identity in Pakistan: An Exploratory Study of Language Attitudes and Usage among Pakistani University Students

Authors

  • Khalid Ahmed

    Faculty of Education and Liberal Arts (FELA), INTI International University, Nilai 71800, Malaysia

  • Saadia Ali

    Department of English, University of Central Punjab, Lahore 5400, Pakistan

  • Irfan Abbas

    Department of English, University of Central Punjab, Lahore 5400, Pakistan

    Department of Linguistics, University of Southern Maine, Gorham 04038, USA

  • Afaq Ahmed Khan

    Department of English, University of Central Punjab, Lahore 5400, Pakistan

  • Badriah Khaleel

    Department of Applied Linguistics, Kinnaird College for Women University, Lahore 5400, Pakistan

  • Nurien Hidayu bt Muhamad Rusly

    Faculty of Education and Liberal Arts (FELA), INTI International University, Nilai 71800, Malaysia

  • Muhammad Suleman Ilyas

    Department of English, University of Central Punjab, Lahore 5400, Pakistan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30564/fls.v7i11.10672
Received: 24 June 2025 | Revised: 8 July 2025 | Accepted: 11 July 2025 | Published Online: 17 October 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the complex relationship between English-language learning and cultural identity among Pakistani university students. It examines their attitudes toward English versus native languages, the patterns of language use in academic and social contexts, and how these factors contribute to existing educational inequalities in multilingual settings. As a linguistically diverse country, Pakistan's emphasis on English in education and professional spheres influences both language choices and identity construction, often exacerbating disparities in access and outcomes. This study examines students’ perceptions of English in relation to their cultural identity, their attitudes toward English and their native languages, and the sociocultural factors shaping language choice in everyday communication, using a mixed-methods approach. Data were collected through questionnaires and semi-structured interviews at multiple universities. The study found that students see English as important for school and job opportunities, but they still feel a strong personal connection to their native languages. They often switch between languages depending on the situation. However, as English becomes more common in everyday life and in online communication, there are worries that local languages may lose their importance. The research shows how language, identity, and power are connected. It suggests that schools and policies should support both English-language learning and local languages, so that students can succeed globally without losing their cultural roots.

Keywords:

Educational Inequality; Language Attitudes; Cultural Identity; Linguistic Imperialism; Code-Switching

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How to Cite

Ahmed, K., Ali, S., Abbas, I., Ahmed Khan , A., Khaleel, B., Muhamad Rusly, N. H. bt, & Ilyas, M. S. (2025). English Language and Cultural Identity in Pakistan: An Exploratory Study of Language Attitudes and Usage among Pakistani University Students . Forum for Linguistic Studies, 7(11), 172–191. https://doi.org/10.30564/fls.v7i11.10672