Abstract：Using family language policy as the theoretical framework, this paper studies the language use (Putonghua, Hakka, and other dialects) among three Hakka families in Guangdong. From the perspective of inter-generational language transmission and maintenance, this paper analyzes the language use among grand-parent generation, parent generation and children generation in the domestic context and explores the factors affecting these language practices. The data collection methods include semi-structure in-depth interviews, family visits and observations, as well as audio and video recording of family dialogues. Through semantic analysis of interview transcript by using NLPIR, the findings show that combination of two language variants (Putonghua and Hakka) is the common feature of daily communication for these three families, and Hakka dialect acquisition of children varies from one family to another. The grand-parent generation provides a major Hakka dialect input and plays a significant role in determining the transmission of Hakka dialect in the family. Because of the declining communicative function of Hakka dialect in the family, language shift inevitably happens. However, with the grand-parent generation adherence to speaking Hakka with children, and bringing children “return to hometown” where Hakka dialect could be used beyond the family scope, Hakka dialect can still possibly be maintained.
