Journal of Humanities Research Sustainability
Vol. 3 No. 3 (2026)

Morphological Change and Semantic Shift in Globalized Languages: A Cross-Linguistic Study

Ishak Bagea (Universitas Muhammadiyah Kendari)
Sitti Agustina (Universitas Halu Oleo)
Miki Yuliandri (Universitas Dharmas Indonesia)
Amina Azhigali (Nazarbayev University)



Article Info

Publish Date
05 Jun 2026

Abstract

Background. The globalization of languages has led to significant morphological changes and semantic shifts across linguistic systems. As languages come into contact with each other through trade, migration, and technological advancement, their structures evolve to accommodate new social and cultural realities. Understanding how these changes manifest and what they reveal about language use in a globalized world is crucial for both linguistics and cultural studies. Purpose. This study aims to investigate the morphological changes and semantic shifts occurring in languages under the influence of globalization. Specifically, it examines how lexical items from dominant global languages (e.g., English) are integrated into other linguistic systems, and how their meanings and forms transform in the process. Method. A cross-linguistic comparative approach is employed, focusing on a selection of languages that have been significantly influenced by global languages. Data were collected from corpora, texts, and spoken language samples across multiple languages. The study applies both qualitative and quantitative methods, including morphological analysis and semantic mapping. Results. The study finds that globalization has led to both the simplification of morphological structures and the expansion of semantic fields, particularly in languages with extensive borrowing from global lingua franca languages. In many cases, the meaning of loanwords shifts to fit local contexts and cultural nuances. Conclusion. This research highlights the dynamic nature of language change in response to globalization, providing insights into how languages adapt and transform in a globally interconnected world.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

humaniora

Publisher

Subject

Humanities

Description

Journal of Humanities Research Sustainability is an international forum for the publication of peer-reviewed integrative review articles, special thematic issues, reflections or comments on previous research or new research directions, interviews, replications, and intervention articles - all ...