Alpha generation lingo: Interpretation of words used in communication among students at Surigao City Special Science Elementary School

Abstract: In today’s fast-evolving digital era, a distinct linguistic trend is emerging among children belonging to Generation Alpha—those born between 2010 and 2025 and raised alongside the rapid development of technology and social media. This study aimed to identify, analyze, and interpret the unique set of vocabulary or “lingo” used by students of Surigao City Special Science Elementary School in their daily communication. Employing a descriptive research design with a mixed-methods approach and grounded in sociolinguistic analysis, the study utilized interviews, observations, and a 200-word Swadesh list-based survey to collect data. Findings revealed that students actively use creative and hybrid linguistic forms, including shortened words, reversed phonemes, modified spellings, acronyms, and expressive terms influenced by digital culture such as social media, online gaming, and popular subcultures. These linguistic innovations serve as expressions of identity and social belonging among the youth. Statistical results using the Chi-square test indicated no significant relationship between the students’ profiles (e.g., gender and grade level) and their use of Alpha Gen lingo, suggesting that this phenomenon transcends demographic categories. While such vocabulary may pose challenges to the formal use of the Filipino language, it also reflects the dynamic and adaptive nature of language. This study underscores the importance of understanding and embracing linguistic changes as vital components of meaningful communication and cultural identity in the modern age.