Martian Language

This study examines the use of Martian language on the internet, focusing on the effect of age and gender on people's performance of Martian language as well as the social functions of Martian language. The results show that: 1) Age, as a social factor, has more effect on people's use of Martian language compared with gender. The use of Martian language by both male and female subjects declined as their age increased. 2) Topic type is another important factor to determine people's use of Martian language on blogs. In this study, more Martian languages were found in the ACG and Students blogs. As expected, there were much fewer Martian languages in the Finance and Politics blogs. This result suggests Martian language is used as a low domain code choice, which is especially exercised in a less formal and serious contexts. 3) Martian language is not only used as a communicative tool for time efficiency and image-building, but also serves some social functions for people to construct in-group solidarity, build friendship, and express local or international identities.

Author: Feng-Yuh (Erma) Lee

Publisher: VDM Verlag Dr. Mueller E.K.

Publication Date: Aug 10, 2008

Number of Pages: 96 pages

Binding: Paperback or Softback

ISBN-10: 3639082028

ISBN-13: 9783639082029