The Rise of Cross-Language Internet Memes: A Social Semiotic Analysis

Abstract

Cross-language internet memes have emerged as a unique and popular mode of online communication, combining bilingual elements with visually textual components. These memes exhibit distinctive characteristics at semantic, syntactic, and pragmatic levels, rendering them a noteworthy semiotic phenomenon in contemporary digital culture. To deepen our understanding of cross-language internet memes, this study investigates user perceptions through a questionnaire, employing SPSS Statistics software for analysis. Applying a social semiotic approach, we decipher the semiotic mechanisms of cross-language memes, shedding light on their potential implications for identity construction. Additionally, we reflect on two prominent trends in internet meme development: the shift from monomodal to multimodal communication and from monolingual to multilingual expressions. This research hopes to provide insights for meme research and online discourse investigations.