Slang Words in Playing Online Games: A Focus on Pubg Mobile

Abstract

Slang in general refers to informal language that consists of words, phrases, and expressions used predominantly in casual conversation rather than formal writing. This qualitative research explores the use of slang in the popular mobile game PUBG Mobile and understands how this language reflects social identity and communication. The study employs discourse analysis and participatory observation methods to gather data from in-game sessions and online forum s. The researcher actively participated in PUBG gaming sessions, engaging in conversations with players during gameplay. In addition, online forums and chat boxes dedicated to PUBG were observed to determine how slang was used in various contexts. Conversations were recorded with the consent of players during these sessions to ensure the authenticity and accuracy of the data. After data collection, the recorded conversations were transcribed, ensuring that the content and context of the slang used were maintained. The results of direct conversations between researchers and players were recorded and then transcribed to be classified into slang forms following Allan and Burridge’s (2006) framework. This study found that PUBG players use slang such as, fresh and creative, flippant, imitative, acronym and clipping.