A Linguistic Study on How Contemporary Sinhala Language Usage is Reflected in Facebook Memes

Abstract

Language does not remain in the same state of stability at all times; its true nature is to undergo constant modernization alongside the changing world. These evolutionary characteristics can be observed in every field of language, including vocabulary and grammar. The spoken language, which is actively used by speakers to socialize their ideas and ideologies, changes rapidly based on contemporary crises, novelties, and other factors. Accordingly, the main objective of this research is to provide a linguistic analysis of the true nature of contemporary Sinhala language usage as reflected in memes on the social media network, Facebook.

This research is strictly limited to the spoken aspect of the Sinhala language. With the advancement of technology, individuals belonging to every social category—regardless of age, knowledge level, or status—use social media networks. Consequently, it appears that a distinct sub-dialectal form of the Sinhala language has been created within Facebook. Therefore, the research problem investigated here is: How is contemporary Sinhala language usage reflected in Facebook memes?

Regarding the research methodology, data collected from the primary source—Facebook memes—was analyzed using linguistic theories. Data was gathered specifically from the first ten Facebook pages found under the heading "Memes" when using the Facebook search engine. Books and magazines relevant to the research were utilized as secondary sources. The results of the research revealed how Sinhala language usage is reflected in Facebook memes through loanwords introduced to Sinhala, terms borrowed from other languages and "Sinhalized," newly coined words (neologisms), and mixed terms formed by combining English words with Sinhala words. Accordingly, the final conclusion of this research is that the nature of contemporary Sinhala language usage is well reflected through Facebook memes.