Unique Expressions in Pakistani English: A Corpus-based Analysis of Pakistani English Novels

Abstract

This study aims to highlight the unique expressions in Pakistani English Novels. Background research indicates that Pakistani English, a distinct variety of English, has unique features which are not present in other English varieties.  The study analyzes a corpus of Pakistani English novels to identify these distinctive features using an exploratory sequential mixed-method design. Quantitative data analysis was conducted with Antconc software to generate concordances and word lists, and qualitative content analysis provided an in-depth text interpretation. The findings of this study reveal unique expressions exclusive to Pakistani English, highlighting its distinctiveness. This study is valuable to students, teachers, and linguistics researchers as it offers insights into Pakistani English used in novels and emphasize its unique features. Recommendations include expanding the PNE corpus to encompass a broader range of Pakistani English novels and conducting in-depth studies on the authorial styles of prominent Pakistani writers to uncover their unique contributions.