Indonesian-Arabic Code-Switching on Instagram: Linguistic Forms and Ideological Constructs of Salafi and Nahdlatul Ulama

Abstract

Arabic-Indonesian code-switching on Instagram illustrates dynamic bilingual practices within Islamic communities, yet often fuels ideological contestation in Indonesia, occasionally erroneously linked to radicalism by state authorities. This study examines the linguistic forms and ideological dimensions of code-switching among Salafi (@muslimorid) and Nahdlatul Ulama (@nuonline_id) communities, using a sociolinguistic approach that combines code-switching theory, Islamic ideological frameworks, and critical discourse analysis to explore language structures and power relations. Through a qualitative-comparative design, 366 Instagram posts and comments were examined using Spradley’s ethnographic method, which systematically analyzes domains, taxonomies, componential analysis, and cultural themes, and Sudaryanto’s distributional method, which examines frequency and distribution of linguistic units. Findings identify seven code-switching forms: textual segment switching, clause-level switching, non-hybrid phrase switching, hybrid phrase switching, non-hybrid lexical insertion, hybrid lexical insertion, and formulaic insertion. Code-switching in Salafi and NU digital discourse reflects ideological orientations, with Salafi favoring hybrid phrases and formulaic insertions emphasizing personal identity, while NU primarily uses non-hybrid phrases and lexical insertions linked to fiqh and classical texts. This study affirms code-switching as a discursive map of religious ideology with global implications for discourse studies, Arabic language pedagogy, and inclusive digital Islamic outreach strategies.