"Chicano English in Context is the first modern comprehensive study of Chicano English, a variety spoken by millions of Latinos in the U.S. It provides a description of the phonology, syntax and semantics of this variety, and is also one of the first studies to look at sound change within an ethnic minority community.

Using quantitative sociolinguistic methods to analyse phonetic and syntactic variables, and bringing in numerous comments and explanations from young Latinos and Latinas about their community, the book explores the construction of ethnic identity through language. It also addresses misconceptions that the general public has about Chicano English, as well as questions that have theoretical implications for the field of sociolinguistics, such as how language change might proceed differently in a minority ethnic community.

Finally, it examines the role of bilingualism in the community, and looks at media portrayals of the language of Latino speakers."--BOOK JACKET.