THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON LANGUAGE CHANGE AND COMMUNICATION

Abstract

Abstract. The rapid growth of social media has significantly influenced the way people communicate and use language in their daily lives. Digital platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, X, Facebook, and WhatsApp have created new spaces for interaction, leading to the emergence of innovative linguistic forms and communication practices. This article examines the impact of social media on language change and communication, focusing on the development of internet slang, abbreviations, emojis, memes, and multilingual communication. It also explores how users, particularly young people, adapt language to express identity, emotions, and social relationships in online environments.