Abstract
The article examines the meaning of the concept of language identity and its role in modern multilingual and bilingual situations. Analyzing the main features of linguistic identity in the works of foreign and domestic scientists, the author emphasizes its significance for the individual and society as a whole or the ethnic group. As it is known, when determining a person’s linguistic identity, the choice is between the native language, as well as the second and third languages. The paper analyzes its preservation in the conditions of bilingualism and polylinguism, its development at its own level, a clear definition of the native language is justified on the basis of the conclusions of linguists. In addition, during the study of this issue, the results of a sociological survey among the city population were presented.