Semantic and Pragmatic Dynamics in Virtual Communication: Speech Act Analysis Hashtag #Julidfisabilillah on Twitter

Abstract

This research explores the dynamics of semantics and pragmatics in virtual communication, particularly focusing on social media interactions. It examines how the meaning and usage of words and phrases (semantics) combined with the context of language use (pragmatics) significantly influence digital identity formation and online community building. The study highlights that language in social media serves not only as a communication tool but also as a means for expressing emotions, attitudes, and opinions. Notably, it observes how specific word choices and symbols often indicate membership in certain communities or stances on specific topics. Additionally, the research delves into the complex dynamics of speech acts in social media, illustrating how users tailor their expressions to specific online contexts. This tailoring involves both semantic content and pragmatic nuances, including word choice, sentence structure, and symbol usage, actively shaping and maintaining social identities in a virtual environment. A case study on the use of the hashtag #JulidFisabilillah on Twitter provides a concrete example of these findings. The hashtag functions as a communal identity marker and a reflection of the broader social and cultural context in which it is used. This case study underscores the interaction between semantics and pragmatics in shaping meaning and identity in virtual communication. Overall, the research concludes that a thorough understanding of social media communication requires an analysis that goes beyond what is said to how and in what context it is said. This study provides new insights into the complexities and depths of virtual communication, emphasizing the significance of context in analyzing communication in the digital era.