Complex intersections of language and culture: the importance of an ethnographic lens for research within transnational communities

A growing body of work exploring transnational interaction has brought to light the importance awareness multilingualism in research contexts, yet little consideration been given researchers working a later learned language (LX) or process investigating linguistically diverse communities. This takes place within multilingual social space, Spanish group London, against backdrop globalized and mobile world. The explores complexities conducting multilingual, international, transient context where sharing all varieties and/or cultures with participants may not be practical, possible, even preferable. data, collected by myself (a participant-researcher), includes recordings informal conversations, ethnographic observations, interviews key participants. Their analysis highlights linguistic adaptation facilitate understanding, demonstrates value common LX, considers how ideologies norms affect transcription multiple varieties. paper argues that utilizing an lens, particularly when allows for deeper understanding localized through closeness advocates slow, detailed approach data analysis.