Linguistic Features of Compound Word Expressions on Facebook: A Discourse Analysis

This study investigates the linguistic classifications and functions of compound word expressions in college students' Facebook posts. The analysis is based on two tables: Table 1.1 presents the classification of compound words, while Table 2.1 examines the linguistic functions of these expressions. The study addresses the limitations of existing classifications, particularly the narrow scope of Katamba's system, which only includes compound nouns, verbs, and adjectives. To expand the classification system, the study suggests incorporating verb-adverb and adverb-adjective compound words. The findings reveal that compound nouns are the most prevalent type, comprising 56.9% of the compound words identified in the Facebook posts. The linguistic functions of compound word expressions are diverse, with "representational" being the most common (23.5%), followed by "personal" (17.6%) and "interactive" (15.7%). However, the study highlights the significance of including verb-adverb and adverb-adjective compounds due to their distinct linguistic features and semantic nuances. This research enhances our understanding of the linguistic structures and functions of compound words in college students' Facebook posts. It emphasizes the importance of effective communication in online contexts and underscores the necessity for students to grasp language functions to convey their messages accurately.