<![CDATA[This study aims to analyze the social functions of the use of onḍhâgghâ in the Madurese language in social interactions within Sampang Regency through a sociolinguistic approach. The study is motivated by the continued prominence of the use of formal register in the Madurese language as a marker of politeness, respect, and social relationships within the community, even though this practice is beginning to shift in the modern era. The study employs a qualitative method grounded in Joshua Fishman’s sociolinguistic theory, particularly regarding the relationship between language and social domains within society. Research data consists of spoken utterances collected through interviews, recording techniques, and notes from native Madurese speakers in Sampang using purposive sampling. The results of the study indicate that onḍhâgghâ bhâsa serves a social function as a means of expressing respect, maintaining harmonious social relationships, avoiding conflict, imparting values of politeness, and signifying social status within the community. The use of speech levels is influenced by factors such as age, social status, kinship ties, and the communication context. This study also reveals the existence of a linguistic stratification system comprising enje’–iya, engghi–enten, and engghi–bhunten, which are employed according to the speakers’ social context. Additionally, a shift in the use of onḍhâgghâ bhâsa among the younger generation has been observed due to the influence of Indonesian, technological advancements, and changes in modern communication styles. Nevertheless, onḍhâgghâ bhâsa remains preserved as an integral part of the social and cultural identity of the Madurese people.]]>
