A comparative linguistic analysis of internet memes in English, Polish and Ukrainian: specifics, functions and language means

Abstract

The present study centers on the examination of the structure and nuances of Internet memes as exemplars of verbal communication. Its objective is to depict and scrutinize Internet memes chosen by theme as linguistic manifestations of sociopolitical and cultural significance. Additionally, the paper aims to investigate the interrelation between the visual and textual elements within the meme. The principal hypothesis posits that Internet memes encompass a range of linguistic devices that aid in constructing the semantic framework of the message and ease the identification of embedded cultural cues. The research methodology is comprehensive, employing descriptive techniques, analysis and synthesis, tools from the comparative method, and surveys of respondents. The study's findings indicate that the structure of Internet memes is fragmented, yet adequate in forming a comprehensive array of meanings, which are also shaped through linguistic mechanisms. Furthermore, this assertion holds true across all three languages analyzed. Future investigations into the cultural and social components of memes, explored through verbal expression using metaphor theory and structural anthropology, can enhance our comprehension of meme creation dynamics and the foundation of its widespread appeal.