NETSPEAK 2023: A PROPOSED INTERNET SLANG GLOSSARY

Laurece Leoncio-Valdez*

Donnalien A. Bernadit

Keir Christian O. Cunanan

Fleah Marie A. Lansang

Ana Ericka E. Resurreccion

Ericka Jane S. Salandanan

Limay Polytechnic College

*laurece.valdez.lpc@gmail.com

2024

ABSTRACT

In the dynamic digital landscape, language served as a fluid tool for communication, while social media platforms acted as channels for self-expression through posts and comments. The emergence of Generation Z fostered Netspeak, a distinct linguistic phenomenon often leading to communication breakdowns. This research scrutinized Netspeak across major social media platforms—Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok—examining its prevalence, categorization, themes, pronunciation, etymology, and definition to establish a foundational internet glossary. The study uncovered 220 instances of Netspeak, with 'Glass Child' emerging as the most utilized term. Netspeak was classified into twelve categories including Neologism, Numeronyms, Logogram, Blended, Abbreviation, Acronym, Shortening, Meme, Reversed, Expression, Spelling Distortion, and Homonym. Common themes associated with Netspeak encompassed addressing, humiliation, impression, intimacy, exclusion, gaming, business, fashion, efficiency, amusement, and disappointment. Researchers not only explored the surface features of Netspeak but also delved into its pronunciation, etymology, and definition, laying the groundwork for an internet glossary. By addressing the nuances of Netspeak comprehensively, the study aimed to mitigate communication barriers between users and non-users, offering a valuable reference tool. Ultimately, this endeavor contributed to fostering effective communication in the ever-evolving landscape of online discourse. Understanding Netspeak's diverse usage and its classification into various linguistic forms provided insights into the digital language's evolution. By studying Netspeak, researchers gained a deeper understanding of how language adapts to digital environments and how communication dynamics shift across different platforms. The internet glossary created as a result of this research serves as a valuable resource for individuals navigating the complexities of online communication, facilitating clearer and more effective interactions in the digital sphere.

Keywords: Netspeak, Theme, Classification, Implication

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