ELF (English as a lingua franca) research counters the monocentric view of English based on
norms of native speakers of English and supports any usages reflecting sociopragmatic and
pragmalinguistic reality of ELF communication. Such an approach empowers any speakers of
English to contemplate their own varieties of English as legitimate providing them greater
options for positive self-identification. Based on qualitative and interpretive methodology
this book illustrates how Japanese L2 English users establish identities related to L2 English
as part of their multiple identities and how they explore new identity options through ELF.
Moreover the author demonstrates how power relations relating to English language are
constructed through the participants¿ experiences in ELF interactions. Also analysis of the
data reveals that to what degree the Japanese L2 English users wish to affiliate with
particular groups in ELF interactions with people from diverse cultural background. Because of
the multidisciplinary nature of the study this book will appeal to a broad audience such as
scholars and students who are interested in further understanding of identity and sociocultural
issues involved in intercultural communication.
