The development of social media has encouraged the emergence of various language varieties in digital communication, one of which is slang language that is widely used by university students. The use of slang not only reflects creativity in vocabulary formation but is also associated with social functions in interactions among users. This study aims to analyze the forms and social functions of slang used by university students on social media. The study employed a qualitative approach with a descriptive design. Data were collected through observation, documentation, and interviews with university students who actively use social media. The data were analyzed through data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification. The findings revealed 15 slang forms, namely seng, mager, kepo, wkwk, cuy, OOT, spill, gabut, PAP, gacor, gamon, baper, kuy, bestie, and gokil. These forms demonstrate various word-formation processes, including acronyms, shortening, the use of English elements, form modification, and onomatopoeia. In terms of social functions, slang is used to indicate familiarity and solidarity, express emotions, and facilitate concise and efficient communication. These findings indicate that slang is a dynamic language variety that develops within students’ digital communication and reflects linguistic creativity as well as adaptation to the interactional context of social media.
Copyrights © 2026