It’s Giving Linguistic Innovation: A Sociolinguistic Analysis of Gen Z Digital Slang

Résumé

The rapid expansion of digital communication has given rise to new forms of linguistic expression, particularly among Generation Z, whose language practices are closely intertwined with social media environments. This study explores the distinctive features of Gen Z digital slang, focusing on expressions such as “slay,” “it’s giving,” “that part,” and “overstimmy.” Drawing on sociolinguistic and pragmatic frameworks, the paper examines how these forms function not merely as lexical innovations but as tools for identity construction, stance-taking, and efficient meaning-making in computer-mediated communication.

The analysis demonstrates that many of these expressions involve processes such as semantic shift, pragmatic enrichment, and morphological creativity, enabling users to convey complex evaluative meanings in highly condensed forms. For example, the term “slay,” traditionally associated with violence, has undergone a positive semantic reconfiguration to express admiration, while constructions like “it’s giving…” operate as flexible discourse frames that invite shared interpretation. Importantly, these expressions often rely on contextual and cultural knowledge, making them both inclusive for in-group members and opaque to outsiders.

By integrating theoretical insights from digital discourse analysis and cyberpragmatics, this study highlights how Gen Z slang reflects broader linguistic trends in online communication, including increased informality, intertextuality, and performative identity work. At the same time, the paper adopts an accessible and explanatory approach, aiming to bridge generational gaps by clarifying meanings and functions for readers unfamiliar with such expressions. Ultimately, the findings suggest that Gen Z digital slang should not be dismissed as superficial or ephemeral but recognized as a dynamic and meaningful component of contemporary language change.