LINGTERSA: Jurnal Linguistik, Terjemahan, Sastra
Vol. 7 No. 1 (2026): LINGTERSA

Online Language Phenomena in Modern Mandarin: A Linguistic Study of Popular Expressions and Digital Neologisms

Alindra, Devi Alvionita (Unknown)
Siregar, Feby Yoana (Unknown)
Siregar, Dina Shabrina Putri (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
02 Mar 2026

Abstract

The rapid growth of digital technology and social media has significantly transformed global communication, including the use of Mandarin. Platforms WeChat, Douyin, and TikTok have accelerated linguistic change and fostered the emergence of Mandarin internet language. This study examines its main linguistic characteristics, formation processes, sociocultural drivers, and implications for academic, social, media, and educational contexts. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, data were collected from the three platforms and analyzed through phonological, morphological, semantic, pragmatic, and sociolinguistic perspectives. The findings reveal distinctive features such as pinyin-based abbreviations, numerical homophones, phonological wordplay, morphological innovation, and expressive hyperbole. Digital neologisms are shaped by linguistic mechanisms, meme culture, and social media virality, while their rapid spread is influenced by youth dominance, social competition, globalization, and online community identity. The study concludes that Mandarin internet language represents a natural linguistic evolution rather than degradation, reflecting cultural, technological, and generational changes in contemporary China.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

lingtersa

Publisher

Subject

Arts Humanities Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

LINGTERSA adalah jurnal peer-reviewed dengan dewan editorial yang terdiri dari ilmuwan ahli di bidang Linguistik, Kesusastraan, dan Terjemahan. Jurnal ini dipublikasikan oleh Program Studi Linguistik, Program Pascasarjana Fakultas Ilmu Budaya, Universitas Sumatera Utara. Bertujuan untuk menyediakan ...