How Gen Z and TikTok are changing the way we speak | The Global Story Podcast, BBC World Service

Notes:

        
Insights Summary: How Gen Z and TikTok are Reshaping Language

1. Accelerated Language Evolution

Social Media as a Catalyst: Platforms like TikTok have drastically shortened the timeline for language change, with words like “riz” rising to prominence and falling out of favor within months.

Generational Exclusivity: Youth-driven slang evolves to reinforce group identity, often discarding words once adopted by older generations.

2. Algorithmic Influence on Communication

TikTok's "Uptalk" Trend: Content creators use rising intonations at sentence ends to maintain engagement, showcasing how algorithms are shaping speech patterns.

Performance-Driven Language: Social media not only spreads language but dictates how it is delivered for maximum audience retention.

3. Global Homogenization vs. Local Identity

Shared Slang Worldwide: Social media breaks down regional barriers, leading to global adoption of terms, which risks diminishing linguistic diversity.

Cultural Crossroads: Words from subcultures (e.g., Black, Latino, LGBTQ+) become mainstream, raising questions about appropriation and the loss of origin context.

4. Language Preservation and Revitalization

Endangered Languages at Risk: The dominance of English and globalized slang threatens smaller languages, contributing to linguicide.

Technology as a Solution: AI and transcription tools like Aliceapp.ai can document and support efforts to preserve endangered languages, ensuring linguistic diversity persists.

5. The Future of Communication

Unstoppable Change: With the constant influx of media and technological innovation, language evolution is expected to become even more hyperactive.

Opportunities and Challenges: While rapid shifts create excitement, they also call for intentional documentation to avoid losing linguistic and cultural treasures.