Text (SMS) Language and Its Effects on Standard of English: A Study of Malaysian Senior Generations Perceptions

Abstract

Technological advancements have affected the way people use languages especially in virtual communication. The language of text messaging and electronic communication resembles speech, with simple syntax, incomplete sentences and informal structure (Proysen, 2009). This paper is aimed not only to explore senior generations’ language style in their text messages, but also to observe the problems they face in understanding text language. Subsequently, perception of the senior generation users on the effect of text language on Standard English was also gathered. Results displayed the existence of a collateral effect of text language on Standard English among users due to the recurring usage of non-conventional forms of written English as well as short forms and abbreviations leading to the deterioration of (written) language proficiency. 75% of the respondents experienced and showed difficulty in interpreting and understanding text language. Finally, respondents also expressed concerns that the evolvement of SMS (text) language may lead to the endangerment in the standard of a language.