LINGUISTIC IDENTIFICATION AND MEANS OF EXPRESSING SOCIAL BELONGING AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE IN MODERN CHINESE INTERNET LANGUAGE (网络语言)

Abstract

This article examines the role of modern Chinese Internet language in shaping young people’s linguistic identity and its potential for expressing social belonging. Particular attention is paid to the significance of abbreviations, popular expressions, symbolic forms, and newly emerging lexical items used in online communication in creating a shared communicative environment among young people. The article also explores how group solidarity, emotional closeness, and generational linguistic characteristics are manifested through Internet language. Using selected examples of Chinese Internet expressions, the relationship between language, personal identity, and social interaction is examined.