DIGITAL COMMUNICATION AND LANGUAGE CHANGE IN CONTEMPORARY UZBEK

Abstract

The rapid development of digital technologies has significantly influenced contemporary language use and communication practices. In the context of the Uzbek language, digital communication through social media platforms, instant messaging applications, online forums, and other internet-based environments has contributed to noticeable linguistic changes. This study examines the impact of digital communication on the lexical, grammatical, stylistic, and pragmatic features of contemporary Uzbek. Particular attention is given to the emergence of neologisms, loanwords, abbreviations, emoji-based expressions, and hybrid language forms that have become widespread in online discourse. The research also explores how digital communication affects language norms, linguistic creativity, and the interaction between standard and non-standard language varieties. Using descriptive and analytical methods, the study highlights the dynamic relationship between technological advancement and language evolution. The findings demonstrate that digital communication serves not only as a medium of information exchange but also as a powerful factor shaping the ongoing development of the Uzbek language in the digital era.