Recent changes and variations in the Vietnamese language used by young people in Vietnam

Abstract

This study investigates recent changes and variations in the Vietnamese language as used by young people, focusing on the influence of globalization, digital communication, and social media. A quantitative approach was adopted through an online survey of 100 participants aged 15–30 from different regions of Vietnam. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis to identify new slang, hybrid expressions, and grammatical innovations. Findings show that over 80% of respondents frequently use slang or newly coined words, with social media platforms—particularly TikTok and Facebook—emerging as the primary sources of linguistic innovation. English loanwords such as chill, flex, and slay, alongside modified Vietnamese forms like “khum” and “toang”, demonstrate a dynamic process of lexical creativity. Results also reveal that 68% of respondents recognize a generational language gap, and while many view linguistic change positively, they maintain respect for traditional Vietnamese. The study concludes that Vietnamese youth language reflects a balance between cultural preservation and global integration, illustrating the vitality and adaptability of Vietnamese in the digital era.