2025/12/25 by Beata Bury, Bury, Beata
Social Sciences · Computer Science · #Language and cultural evolution #Digital Communication and Language #Media, Communication, and Education
paper · doi:10.34616/ajmp.2025.27.3
The subject matter of this study is algospeak, a form of coded language used by social media users to evade automated content moderation systems. This study investigates the intricate linguistic strategies employed in algospeak, encompassing emojis, acronyms, euphemisms, number, and symbol substitutions. The research perspective employed in this study is grounded theory, which involves systematic data analysis. The research material comprises an algospeak corpus sourced from platforms such as Know Your Meme, dictionary.com, and Urban Dictionary, which was meticulously analyzed to discern patterns and motivations underlying these linguistic adaptations. The study unveils that algospeak not only facilitates circumvention of censorship mechanisms but also serves to cultivate communal identity and provide support to marginalized communities. This study underscores the complex interplay between technology and human expression, highlighting the need for balanced content moderation that respects free speech and enhances digital literacy.