Exploring the Semantic Meaning and Structure of Slang in Instagram Captions
Abstract
This article discusses the semantic aspects of slang terms used in Instagram captions. Language is dynamic and constantly evolving, especially in digital communication where informal expressions like slang are prevalent. Slang reflects social identity, group belonging, and modern communication styles. This study analyzes the lexical and contextual meanings of selected slang words, as well as their word formation processes such as acronyms, clipping, and imitative forms. The findings reveal that acronyms are the most dominant formation, indicating a preference for brevity and convenience in online interaction. Slang on Instagram serves not only as a tool of expression but also as a representation of digital culture. However, excessive or inappropriate use of slang may lead to miscommunication, especially across different generations or formal settings. This research contributes to understanding how language adapts to new platforms and offers insight into the semantic functions of online slang.
Downloads
References
Darmawan, I., & Rahman, N. I. Z. (2023). Analisis Fonem terhadap Bahasa Slang di Sosial Media Twitter, Instagram dan Facebook. Journal on Education, 5(4), 16229-16244
Hidayah, L. W., Fitriyah, N., & Bhatti, M. S. (2022). The Meaning Analysis of Slang Words in Instagram Used By K-Popers. Wacana Didaktika, 10(01), 9-20.
Khansir, A. A., & Pakdel, F. (2016). Place of linguistics in English language teaching. Arab World English Journal (AWEJ) Volume, 7.
NIZAR, M. A. (2024). SEMANTIC ANALYSIS OF THE USE OF ENGLISH ABBREVIATION IN INSTAGRAM CAPTIONS (Doctoral dissertation, UIN RADEN INTAN LAMPUNG.
Niswa, K., Hastianah, H., Herman, H., Fatmawati, E., Saputra, N., & Mukmin, M. (2023). Understanding Meaning From Online Advertisement Through Semantics Analysis of Slang (SAOS): A Case on Semantics. Studies in Media and Communication, 11(5), 2-9.
Crystal, D., & Robins, R. H. (2021). Language. Encyclopedia Britannica.
YULIANA, E. P. (2023). SEMANTIC ANALYSIS IN THE LYRICS OF COLDPLAY’S SONGS (Doctoral dissertation, UIN RADEN INTAN LAMPUNG).
Copyright (c) 2025 Hamida Rizka Fawzy

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.
- Authors retain copyright and grant the journal right of first publication with the work simultaneously licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution License that allows others to share the work with an acknowledgement of the work’s authorship and initial publication in this journal.
- Authors are able to enter into separate, additional contractual arrangements for the non-exclusive distribution of the journal’s published version of the work (e.g., post it to an institutional repository or publish it in a book), with an acknowledgement of its initial publication in this journal.
- Authors are permitted and encouraged to post their work online (e.g., in institutional repositories or on their website) prior to and during the submission process, as it can lead to productive exchanges, as well as earlier and greater citation of published work.



