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| Masyhud, M.Pd (Photo: Special). |
In this digital era, Indonesia's Z Generation is at the forefront of linguistic innovation. This generation is increasingly connected to English, which is easily learned through social media. In fact, terms such as Laugh Out Loud (LOL) and For Your Information (FYI), which were originally typical of English, are now being adopted in everyday conversation.
Masyhud, M.Pd., a lecturer in the English Department at the University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM), says that there is a shift in preference in the use of English nowadays as compared to the past. “For example, English used to be textual (standardized) and learned through textbooks. However, nowadays anything that is on social media is being taken up,” he explains.
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Moreover, he thinks that this change involves more than just language usage but also the patterns of communication in general. Moreover, the Z generation now prefers English to express themselves, both verbally and in writing.
“The sophistication of technology has created a lack of boundaries for communicating both domestically and internationally. In addition, Gen Z is also more likely to write something through social media,” he said.
He added that the massive use of English has a positive impact on Gen Z. For example, the increasing number of new jobs as copywriting, content writers, and so on. Thus, the use of English is not only limited to verbal communication but also in writing.
With Gen Z getting used to English, there are some consequences for the local language. Masyhud said that a language that was once considered foreign could become a second language. “The increase in the use of English can threaten the sustainability of local languages because their understanding and use are declining among the younger generation. Sooner or later, it will affect the extinction of local languages,” he said.
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Nonetheless, the use of English by Gen Z can sometimes also be seen as an attempt to look 'cool' on social media. In this context, it is also a symbol of a modern and fashionable digital identity. However, it is possible that awkwardness is still felt when using English in more traditional social settings.
Masyhud also emphasized that adaptation to English is a must in a world that is getting more connected. “Gen Z must be ready to communicate in English because global challenges know no boundaries. Thus, the shift in language use is a reflection of larger changes in the way Gen Z interacts and adapts to an increasingly connected world through social media,” he concluded. (lai/wil/put)
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