Analysis Semantic Change of the Slang Evolution 2020-2025 in Social Media

Abstract

This study aims to analyze changes in the meaning of English slang used on social media from 2020 to 2025. Social media has become the primary space for everyday language, especially among younger users. In this context, slang functions not only as informal communication but also as a marker of identity and group belonging. Platforms such as TikTok, Twitter, and Instagram accelerate the spread of slang, often leading to shifts in meaning driven by digital interaction, viral trends, and online communities. This research adopts a descriptive qualitative method by analyzing 21 slang terms that have undergone notable semantic shifts. Each term is examined based on its original meaning and its current use in digital contexts. The findings identify four types of semantic change: amelioration, pejoration, narrowing, and broadening. For instance, dope and queen now carry more positive meanings, while chopped has taken on a negative tone. Words like ghost and main character reflect narrowing, whereas tea and cooked represent metaphorical expansion. These findings suggest that changes in slang are influenced by the need for self-expression, humor, and group identity in digital environments. Thus, slang meaning shifts are both linguistic and cultural phenomena. This study contributes to semantic and sociolinguistic discussions on how language evolves in online spaces.