SURZHYK AS A SOCIOLINGUISTIC PHENOMENON: MAIN APPROACHES TO ANALYSIS

Abstract

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of surzhyk as a sociolinguistic phenomenon in the Ukrainian linguistic space. It examines the main scientific approaches to defining the concept of surzhyk, its status in contemporary linguistics, as well as the controversial nature of its interpretation as a violation of the literary norm, a sociolect, or a form of language mixing. The socio-historical preconditions for the emergence of Surzhyk are examined, in particular the influence of Russification, bilingualism, urbanization processes, and interlingual interference. The paper analyzes the characteristics of surzhyk’s functioning in various spheres of contemporary society, particularly in everyday, youth, and mass-cultural environments, as well as its social functions and public perception by representatives of different generations. Emphasis is placed on the fact that Surzhyk reflects complex historical and sociocultural processes that have influenced the formation of the linguistic situation in Ukraine. It is determined that the spread of Surzhyk is linked not only to historically formed conditions but also to the current level of linguistic culture, linguistic awareness, and attitudes toward the Ukrainian literary language. The importance of developing linguistic competence and preserving linguistic norms as components of national identity is emphasized.