Word Formation Strategies and Origins of Chinese Slang in the Xiaohongshu Application

Abstract

 The objective of this research was to examine the word formation strategies and origins of Chinese slang in the Xiaohongshu (小红书) application. Data were collected using purposive sampling, yielding
a total of 121 examples comprising words, phrases, and clauses in actual use on the platform. The study employed word formation theory (Yule, 2010) as an overarching theoretical framework, along with sociolinguistics and the concept of group language as analytical frameworks. The findings revealed that Chinese slang word formation strategies could be classified into seven types: 1) coinage of new words,
2) semantic extension of existing words, 3) word abbreviation or truncation, 4) phonetic substitution using homophones, 5) numeric encoding for conceptual representation, 6) integration of vocabulary from foreign languages, and 7) hybridization of English and Chinese linguistic elements. Furthermore, the origins of Chinese slang expressions can be divided into five categories: 1) socially resonant trends or phenomena,
2) cultural influence exerted by public figures, 3) entertainment media and internet culture, 4) influence of regional dialects, and 5) influence of foreign languages. The findings of this study can serve as a reference for further related research, as well as supplementary material for the teaching and learning of Chinese slang.