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The Impact of Language as Communication in Social Media

The document explores the impact of language as a form of communication on social media, highlighting its role in reshaping interactions, relationships, and self-expression. It discusses how platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok have fostered new communication styles through the use of slang, emojis, and gifs, while also addressing concerns about shallow relationships and limited exposure to diverse viewpoints. Ultimately, the essay emphasizes the complex role social media plays in modern communication, offering both opportunities for language learning and challenges in interpersonal connections.

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4 views

The Impact of Language as Communication in Social Media

The document explores the impact of language as a form of communication on social media, highlighting its role in reshaping interactions, relationships, and self-expression. It discusses how platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok have fostered new communication styles through the use of slang, emojis, and gifs, while also addressing concerns about shallow relationships and limited exposure to diverse viewpoints. Ultimately, the essay emphasizes the complex role social media plays in modern communication, offering both opportunities for language learning and challenges in interpersonal connections.

Uploaded by

Jorry Gerarcas Zorry's Channel
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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The Impact of Language as Communication in Social Media

A Research - Based Documented Essay written by Marvin Jay Encarnacion

Social media has become a dominant force in how we communicate, reshaping our interactions,
relationships, and even the way we express ourselves. At the heart of these digital spaces lies
language, which is not just about words but also the unique ways people use text, symbols, and
images to communicate. From hashtags to emojis, and memes to gifs, language on social media is
dynamic and constantly changing, influencing how we connect with others and express our
identities. As these platforms evolve, understanding how language shapes communication has
become essential to understanding the broader impact of social media on our daily lives.

On social media, language isn't limited to formal written sentences; it's a blend of visuals and text,
often shorthand, that reflects the fast-paced, informal nature of online communication. Platforms
like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok have fostered the creation of new slang, abbreviations, and
codes that make online communication feel more personal and relatable. Emojis and gifs, for
instance, are not just decorative but are integral to how users convey emotions and nuance in a
way words alone often can’t. This shift in communication styles has given rise to new ways of
engaging with others, both socially and culturally, creating unique digital communities and norms.

The influence of language on social media communication extends far beyond simple exchanges
between users. It plays a significant role in shaping public discourse, influencing societal norms,
and even driving social movements. This essay examines the impact of language as a form of
communication in social media, exploring how it influences interactions, fosters community, and
shapes public discourse.

Studies have shown that Facebook may be a useful platform for language learning (Slim, H., &
Hafedh, M. 2019). Facebook and other social media sites such as TouTube, TikTok, etc. can be
useful platforms for language learning by providing exposure to authentic content, such as videos,
articles, and posts in different languages. It offers opportunities for real-time interaction through
comments, messages, and groups, allowing learners to practice with native speakers and fellow
learners. Additionally, language-specific groups and pages promote cultural immersion, enhancing
both language skills and understanding of cultural context.

According to Subramanian, K., & Subramanian, K. 2017. There are three key concerns emerging
about how social media is affecting the way we communicate. First, when we communicate online,
we often feel a sense of trust towards the people we’re engaging with, which makes us more open
and willing to share. Second, while social media helps us stay connected, it doesn’t strengthen our
relationships in the same way face-to-face interactions do. As a result, our connections often stay
at surface level, rather than deepening over time. Finally, many of us tend to follow and interact
with people who share our views, which means we’re not exposed to as many different
perspectives as we would be through more diverse, in-person conversations.

The rise of platforms like Facebook has changed how people engage and interact with one another
(Seargeant, P., & Tagg, C. 2014). It has enabled instant communication across the globe, allowing
users to share updates, thoughts, and media in real-time. Social interactions have shifted from face-
to-face to online spaces, where individuals can form communities, join groups, and connect with
others based on shared interests. Additionally, Facebook’s features like liking, commenting, and
sharing have transformed how people express opinions, support causes, and participate in public
discussions.
In conclusion, social media platforms like Facebook have significantly transformed the way we
communicate, offering both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, Facebook provides
valuable tools for language learning through exposure to authentic content, real-time interaction,
and cultural immersion. On the other hand, concerns have emerged regarding the nature of online
communication, such as the tendency for shallow relationships, limited diversity of viewpoints,
and the false sense of trust between users. Despite these challenges, Facebook's ability to connect
people globally and facilitate instant communication has reshaped how individuals engage with
each other, highlighting the complex role social media plays in modern communication.
Reference

Slim, H., & Hafedh, M. (2019). SOCIAL MEDIA IMPACT ON LANGUAGE LEARNING FOR
SPECIFIC PURPOSES: A STUDY IN ENGLISH FOR BUSINESS
ADMINISTRATION. Teaching English with Technology, 19(1), 56–71.
https://www.ceeol.com/search/article-detail?id=737372

Subramanian, K., & Subramanian, K. (2017). Influence of Social Media in Interpersonal


Communication Influence of Social Media in Interpersonal
Communication. Issue, 109(109). https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Kalpathy-
Subramanian/publication/319422885_Influence_of_Social_Media_in_Interpersonal_Com
munication/links/59a96d950f7e9b2790120fea/Influence-of-Social-Media-in-
Interpersonal-Communication.pdf

Seargeant, P., & Tagg, C. (2014). Introduction: The language of social media. The Language of
Social Media, 1–20. https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137029317_1

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