SHIFTS IN MEANING AND SLANG USAGE ON SOCIAL MEDIA: A SEMANTIC-PRAGMATIC ANALYSIS OF GENERATION Z SPEECH

Abstrak

This study aims to analyze shifts in meaning and the usage of slang in Generation Z's social media communication from semantic and pragmatic perspectives. A qualitative descriptive method was employed, utilizing data on slang usage from various social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and X. Data collection involved observation, note-taking, and documentation, while analysis entailed comparing conventional meanings with those emerging in digital communication contexts and identifying the pragmatic functions of the slang. The findings reveal that Generation Z slang undergoes various forms of semantic shift, including broadening, narrowing, nuance changes, as well as shifts based on metaphor and association. Pragmatically, slang is used to express emotions, build solidarity, signal group identity, create humor, and convey judgments or attitudes. Context plays a crucial role in determining the meaning of slang, as its usage is highly dependent on the situation and communicative intent. Thus, the use of slang on social media reflects both linguistic creativity and the dynamics of language change within Generation Z's digital communication.