Even a few years ago, we didn’t realize that social media would have such a significant impact on people in the 21st century. It has made communication and engagement with the modern world much easier and more accessible. However, the impact of social media goes beyond our daily lives; it also affects the way we use language. Language, which comprises a set of sounds and words used for expression and communication, is being used differently on social media platforms.
In Bangladesh, the youth are particularly active on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, LinkedIn, and Twitter. The way they use language on these platforms has a significant impact on their communication and literacy skills. The duality of social media’s impact on language use is evident in the way it shapes communication and literacy among youth.
Positive Impacts
● Proficiency in Multilingualism: Youth can use multiple languages as mediums of communication. To connect with people globally, they are exposed to different cultural environments through platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. This exposure can enhance their ability to be bilingual or multilingual. For example, students might share their ideas about an international issue in English while discussing local issues in Bangla.
● Global Connectivity: Many Bangladeshi youth are active on LinkedIn, where they share corporate
ideas or opinions in English. Moreover, students are participating in global forums that help them learn phrases and colloquialisms from other cultures.
● Educational Resources: Social media provides access to educational platforms like 10 Minute School, Shikho Academy, and Coursera. Students have the opportunity to learn English, Bangla, and other languages in a structured way.
● Group Learning: Several groups allow students to connect with others who want to practice English to develop their speaking or writing skills. Through these groups, they discuss various topics and improve their language skills.
Negative Impacts
Despite the positive aspects, excessive use of social media has led to some concerning contradictions in language use among Bangladeshi youth. Some negative impacts include:
● Informal Language Usage: Excessive social media use often leads teenagers to use informal language. For instance, shorthand may seep into formal writing in academic settings. Examples include “Bhalo acho?” becoming ‘vlo acho?’, “Something” becoming ‘smth’, which can affect professional language use.
● Use of Slang: The proliferation of informal content has led to the adoption of slang. Terms like
“Mama”, “Baapok”, “Dhurr Beta” are becoming common, blurring the lines between formal and
informal language usage in both English and Bangla.
● Code-Switching: Frequent code-switching is common among youth. For example, a social media post might read: “Ajke ekta new restaurant e new item try korechi, didn’t like it much.”
● English Dominance: Due to its prevalence on social media and the internet, English has influenced
language usage worldwide. Many influencers and celebrities in Bangladesh use English to reach global audiences. For instance, popular food and fashion bloggers often use English more than Bangla, influencing youth to adopt this style of communication.
● Adoption of Western Culture: Social media can unconsciously influence youth to adopt Western
culture. Trends often emphasize Western lifestyles, leading to the use of phrases like ‘Let’s grab a
coffee’ instead of ‘Cholo Cha khai’ (let’s have tea).
Conclusion
Overall, social media has both positive and negative impacts. However, the negative impacts are more pronounced in the usage of language among Bangladeshi youth. It is important to understand that social media is not a real-world context in which inappropriate language should be normalized. Whenever trends promote certain words or phrases like “So beautiful, so elegant, just looking like a wow”, we should be cautious and not follow these trends blindly. The negative effects of social media on language can create obstacles in both professional and personal communication. To be conscientious learners, youth need to have a better understanding of their native language and protect their mother tongue.
– Zerin Anjum Prova
