Dominant Language Constellation as a Method of Research

Abstract

The contribution will explore the grounds for employing Dominant Language Constellation (DLC) as an additional approach to the time-honored methods of research in multilingualism. Dominant Language Constellation is a group of one’s most important languages, functioning as an entire unit, and enabling an individual to meet all needs in a multilingual environment. Unlike linguistic repertoire, which embraces all the skills and registers of all the acquired languages, the Dominant Language Constellation includes only the vehicle languages of a person. Communal DLCs are manifestations of how societal multilingualism occurs through linguistic practices. This paper develops the DLC theory further. After some theoretical considerations on the complementary but distinct concepts DLC and language repertoire, the article will demonstrate what kind of research can be done with the help of the DLC approach. It will suggest ways to investigate the particularities of evolving DLCs in various contexts from linguistic, sociolinguistic and applied linguistic disciplinary angles, taking into consideration the particular research interest, the demands of the situation and the desired amount of detail.