An Investigation Into Chinese Internet Neologisms

Abstract

With the rapid progress of the Internet and easy access to social networking, online communication has become the common occurrence of netizens, hence the spring-up of Internet neologisms. These new expressions mirror emerging phenomena, fresh changes and trending fashions in all aspects of social life as well as play an increasingly important role in social media and people’s daily life. Internet neologisms are full of profound social and cultural connotations, which renders it necessary to make an inquiry into the workings of Chinese Internet neologism (CIN). This paper is designed to make it clear what CIN is, how it is classified, and what are the features and social connotations underlying the seemingly bantering lingoes of CIN.