In 2009, newly elected president Barack Obama visited a famous eatery in Washington, DC, and, after paying his tab, was asked by the cashier if he wanted his change. The president's reply was, "Nah, we straight." Which of the following was the president doing?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The president's use of "Nah, we straight" suggests that he was code switching, or transitioning between two different linguistic codes or varieties. The phrase "we straight" is an example of African American Vernacular English, which is not typically used by politicians or in formal settings. However, in this context, it was likely a way for the president to connect with the cashier and demonstrate his knowledge and use of multiple language varieties.

In 2009, Newly Elected President Barack Obama Visited a Famous