Universitas Islam Negeri Raden Mas Said Surakarta
International Conference on Cultures & Languages

Language Change and Cultural Transformation: The Impact of TikTok on Language Use Among Generation Z

Date Published : 5 December 2025

Contributors

Nur Aziz Abdillah

Main Author

Minatur Rokhim

Fourth Author

Ali Hasan Al Bahar

Fifth Author

Mozzarella Najwa Mulyana Putri

Second Author

Najla

Third Author

Keywords

TikTok Generation Z language change cultural transformation social media cultural identity

Proceeding

Vol. 3 No. 1 (2025): Proceeding of International Conference on Cultures & Languages 2025

Track

General Track

License

Copyright (c) 2025 International Conference on Cultures & Languages

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.

Abstract

This article explores the phenomenon of language change and cultural transformation triggered by the consumption and production of content on TikTok. Using a qualitative approach based on content analysis and in-depth interviews, this study identifies distinctive language patterns, such as the mixing of Indonesian and English codes, the adoption of new vocabulary from global trends, and changes in word meanings. The results show that the use of TikTok drives language shifts, where local languages tend to be marginalized in online interactions, while informal and expressive language styles become increasingly dominant. Additionally, cultural transformation is evident in the growing influence of global popular culture, which shapes the identity, entertainment preferences, and lifestyle of Generation Z in Indonesia. However, creative adaptations are also observed, where local cultural elements are packaged in global formats to attract a broader audience. These findings provide insights into the role of social media in shaping language and cultural dynamics, while also opening opportunities to utilize it as a medium for preserving local identity in the digital age.

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How to Cite

Language Change and Cultural Transformation: The Impact of TikTok on Language Use Among Generation Z . (2025). International Conference on Cultures & Languages, 3(1), 1163-1181. https://conferences.uinsaid.ac.id/iccl/paper/view/439