Lexical Features In Computer-mediated Discourse

Netspeak is a popular term when computer-mediated communication (CMC) is concerned. However, there is no agreement on its exact definition and classification. This paper aims to explore the lexical features in computer-mediated discourse.Data and examples in this paper are collected from online material such as chatrooms and forums and online/offline exsiting researches. Based on the theories of lexicology, language and context and cognitive linguistics, this paper conducts a macro analysis of the lexical features in Chinese and English computer-mediated discourse.Through the investigation, the paper gets the following conclusions:①Various context factors should be taken into account when classification of CMD is concerned.②Words created by semantic change are metaphor or metonymy, which are our cognitive "instrument" to conceptualize new concepts.③Words created by metaphors, metonymies and partial tones are more in Chinese CMD than in English CMD; On the contrary, the highly productive lexical formation means of Englsih CMD are abbreviation and acronym. Furthermore, the influence of English on Chinese from CMD prospective is also included.④Non-language communication means in CMD are listed.⑤There is a tendency of "foreignizaiton" of words in Chinese CMD.