What is the main focus of Dell Hymes' research?

The main focus of Dell Hymes' research is interactions between language and cultural context. Hymes introduced the concept of "communicative competence," which emphasizes that effective communication is not solely about grammatical correctness but also involves understanding the social and cultural contexts in which language is used. He argued that language use is deeply embedded within cultural practices and that speakers must navigate these contexts to communicate appropriately and effectively. This perspective highlights the importance of culture in shaping language practices and understanding communication beyond mere structure, making Hymes' contributions crucial for the study of language development in relation to social interactions.