Language Innovations in Digital Literature: Neologisms in Filipino Alternative Universe Fanfiction

This study examined neologisms in a 702,917-word corpus of Filipino Alternate Universe fanfiction on X and TikTok. One hundred one neologisms were analysed based on their morphological structure following Dimaculangan and Sarmiento’s (2024) proposed framework for Philippine English (PhE) word-formation. The study also expands the framework by proposing additional categories such as phonetic play, the multi-layered processes, and subcategories of orthographic deviation, namely, syllabic metathesis, retro spelling, extensionism, punctuolexicalization, and alphanumeric substitution. Additionally, 100 Generation Z participants were surveyed as to their familiarity with the identified neologisms. Results revealed a prevalent understanding of these neologisms, suggesting their widespread use in digital literature and discourse. This study contributes to the expanding lexicon of PhE and the Filipino language, offering insights into Gen Z's digital language innovation. Keywords: Alternative universe; gen Z; morphological analysis; neologisms; Philippine English