EJI (English Journal of Indragiri): Studies in Education, Literature, and Linguistics
<span style="color: #000000; font-family: latoregular; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: #ffffff; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;">EJI (English Journal of Indragiri): Studies in Education, Literature, and Linguistics is a scientific journal issued by the English Study Program FKIP Islamic University of Indragiri Tembilahan Riau. It includes authentic studies, conceptual, and best work articles in English education, literature, and linguistics. Then it is put out twice a year in January and July. (ISSN. 2549-2144, E-ISSN. 2598-5140) (Accredited SINTA 5).
Exploring The Transatlantic Divide: American Vs British Slang In 'Wild Child' Movie
This "Transatlantic Divide" between AmE and BrE refers to one of the most prominent sociolinguistic phenomena, especially in slang usage. To date, prior research into slang has commonly been restricted to studying single regional varieties or comparing lists without considering their narrative and sociocultural functions. This paper, therefore, aims to bridge this gap by discussing the sociolinguistic function of the interplay between AmE and BrE slang in the 2008 teen comedy film Wild Child. The research applies a descriptive qualitative method with a content analysis approach to analyze the dialogue in the movie in order to find, categorize, and interpret slang expressions according to their communicative and narrative roles. These results show two different sociolinguistic functions. First, local varieties of AmE and BrE slang serve as linguistic barriers, creating conflict, misunderstanding, and marking social distance between characters. The differences underline the construction of "in-group" and "out-group" identities and focus on cultural dissonance. Second, a category of mutually intelligible expressions or "global slang" serves as a linguistic bridge that fosters mutual understanding, emotional connection, and integration of the characters. In these ways, the movie presents language both as a source of division and as a means of reconciliation. The paper concludes that Wild Child effectively mobilizes the Transatlantic Divide not merely from a stylistic or comedic perspective but as a core narrative mechanism. Slang is used as a means through which social hierarchies, cultural adaptation, and identity negotiation are dramatized, showing how linguistic variation drives both conflict and harmony in cross-cultural communication.
American English, British English, slang, sociolinguistics, Wild Child
Copyright (c) 2026 Laura Meylinda Maharani, Elanneri Karani, Tutik Haryani, Jonathan Tegar, Mieyrandha https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Challenges Faced by ELT Teachers in Adopting ChatGPT as an Instructional Tool
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) ChatGPT hold remarkable opportunities for enhancing language teaching and learning. However, integrating ChatGPT into classroom activity created challenges for teachers such as lack familiarity with the technology, difficulty to differ AI or students’ generated work, weaken students’ creativity and critical thinking. The purpose of the research was to find out challenges faced by ELT teachers in adopting ChatGPT as an instructional tool. This was descriptive qualitative research. It was conducted to thirteen private senior high school teachers in Riau. The sample was taken by purposive sampling technique. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews conducted over Zoom and WhatsApp voice calls. The data were analysed thematically by applying Braun and Clarke’s theory. The finding indicated that ChatGPT adoption among ELT teachers remains constrained by pedagogical uncertainty, ethical concerns, limited technical competence, and inadequate institutional support. Teachers continue to struggle with aligning AI tools to learning objectives, ensuring academic integrity, and verifying the accuracy of AI-generated content, while also navigating unclear policies and unstable technological infrastructure. In conclusion, language teachers faced many challenging in adopting ChatGPT in their teaching. Therefore, it was suggested to educational institution who willing to adopt it into their instruction needed to facilitate workshop or training on AI, especially ChatGPT and digital literacy for their teachers.
Copyright (c) 2026 Maspufah, Yeni Afriyeni, Diana Zuriati, Gunaldi Masbiran https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Fostering Critical Thinking and Digital Literacy: Students’ Use of the Verb “Be” in English Sentences
This study aims to analyze students’ mastery of the verb be in various sentence forms and to evaluate the role of digital-based exercises in enhancing students’ critical thinking and digital literacy skills. The study employed a quantitative descriptive approach, with data collected through Google Forms from 12 EFL students. The research instrument consisted of multiple-choice questions, with 10 items each for positive sentences, negative sentences, and interrogative sentences. The results indicate that students are more proficient in forming positive sentences, while negative and interrogative sentences show higher error rates, particularly regarding subject-verb inversion and the use of not. Activities requiring students to explain their answer choices fostered the development of critical thinking skills, while the use of an online platform strengthened their digital literacy. The limitations of this study include a relatively small sample size and a focus on simple sentences. Future research is suggested to expand the sample, use more complex sentences, and explore the relationship between grammar mastery, critical thinking, and digital literacy in more authentic learning contexts.
positive-negative-interrogative sentences
Copyright (c) 2026 Gunaldi Masbiran, Vina Fathira, Lelly Zuyana Asril https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Grammatical Challenges in English Writing among First-Year University Students
Grammar is a crucial component of English writing, yet many first-year university students face difficulties in applying it correctly. This study aims to explore the grammatical challenges of first-year university students in English writing, including their difficulties, strategies, and perceptions. This qualitative study involved 10 first-year university students enrolled in an introductory English course at a university in Pekanbaru, providing insights into their grammatical challenges, strategies, and perceptions in English writing. Data were collected through interviews. The responses were analyzed thematically and illustrated using direct quotations. The findings revealed that students frequently struggle with tenses, subject–verb agreement, prepositions, and sentence structure. Writing frequency varied, with some students practicing regularly while others wrote only when assigned. Strategies to improve grammar included reading example sentences, using applications and books, asking peers or teachers for feedback, and self-correction. Students acknowledged that understanding grammar is important for clarity, effective communication, and academic success. The study highlights the need for structured grammar instruction, regular writing practice, and effective feedback. Providing reliable resources and emphasizing common error patterns can help students overcome grammatical challenges and enhance their writing skills. It is recommended that educators provide targeted grammar lessons focusing on common errors, integrate digital tools to support autonomous learning, and encourage consistent writing practice to help students enhance their grammar skills and overall writing proficiency.
Copyright (c) 2026 M. Fadhly Farhy Abbas, Vina Fathira, Gunaldi Masbiran https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Challenges and Roles of English Public Speaking Courses for Students at the University
This research examined students’ levels of difficulty and their understanding progress in English Public Speaking, key areas of focus include grammar, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and accent. Data were taken from 45 students of the English Literature Study Program, Persada Bunda Indonesia University, Pekanbaru, Riau. The mixed research used a questionnaire as an instrument of data collection. The qualitative data in this study complemented the quantitative data, providing a deeper understanding of how and why the Public Speaking course affects students' speaking abilities, particularly in terms of their experiences, attitudes, and perceptions. Overall, the findings indicated that prior to taking the Public Speaking course, students experienced a high level of difficulty in all aspects of English public speaking. The overall mean score of 3.55, categorized as Strongly Difficult, shows that grammar, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and accent posed substantial challenges. These results highlight the need for structured public speaking instruction to support students’ English-speaking development. After completing the Public Speaking course, students demonstrated a very high level of understanding across all English public speaking indicators. The overall mean score of 3.63, categorized as Very High, indicates substantial improvement in grammar, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and accent. These findings suggest that the Public Speaking course was effective in enhancing students’ English-speaking competence and overall communicative performance.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dr. Karnedi, SS, M. Pd, Dr. Lelly Zuyana Asril, SS, M.Pd, Arif Alexander Bastian https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Pragmatic Analysis of Leech’s Politeness Principles in Encanto Movie
This study explores how politeness works in the animation movie called Encanto in theory of Geoffrey Leech’s Politeness Principle. It focuses on how the six maxims of tact, generosity, approbation, modesty, agreement, and sympathy appear in the characters’ dialogues and how they build the story and their relationships. The data collected from selected lines in the movies and were analyzed using a qualitative descriptive method. The researchers identified the dialogues that presented politeness, classified them based on Leech’s maxims, and analyzed how each maxim functions in the characters’ communications. This helps us know how polite language can reduce tension and guide emotional responses during conversations. It also shows how everyday family talk reflects values like respect, care, and modesty. The findings reveal that all six maxims appear in the film, with approval being the most frequent and sympathy the least. In more emotional scenes, the characters tend to rely on tact and generosity. The approval maxim often helps maintain relationships and encourages warmth between characters. Overall, the study suggests that politeness in Encanto supports family harmony and plays an important role in character development and conflict resolution. It also shows that pragmatic theories can be applied to fictional stories and adds to the growing research on politeness in animated films.
Copyright (c) 2026 Tri Vika Siahaan, Geby Novelisa Sitompul, Gifa Auzira Alivia, Jesika br Sitio https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Role of Self Concept in Forming Students’ Self Confidence in Public Speaking
Public speaking with confidence is one of the most important skills in education, especially for university students. In fact, many students still lack confidence in public speaking, while others are very good at it. Self-concept is an important factor that influences students' self-confidence in public speaking. This study aimed to explore the role of self-concept in building students' confidence in public speaking. It used a qualitative descriptive method and interview as research instrument. Students in the public speaking class of the English Education program at Institut Pendidikan Soe were involved in the study. The results showed that self-concept has three important roles in building students' confidence, namely: as a foundation of confidence, overcome anxiety and doubt, and key to facing challenges. This also confirms that a positive self-concept helps students have high self-confidence.
Copyright (c) 2026 Amin R Ngefak, Lesly N. Ndun, Yabes Olbata https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Word Formation Processes and Meanings in English-Based K-Pop Group Names
This paper analyzes the formation and meaning of English-based K-pop group names through morphological and semantic approaches. As K-pop has become a global phenomenon, it is undeniable that English plays a significant role in shaping its international identity and image. Therefore, this study attempts to identify the types of word formation processes used in English K-pop group names and describe their meanings. This study applies Yule's (2020) theory of word formation, which consists of compounding, blending, clipping, acronyms, and other processes, as well as Leech's (1981) theory of meaning. Thirty K-pop group names were collected from official and valid online sources and analyzed qualitatively. The results show that the most dominant process is compounding, followed by acronyms and blending. These processes are commonly used because they make group names shorter, more creative, and more memorable. Semantically, the most frequently found meaning is connotative meaning. This reflects how K-pop names contain emotions, identity, and creativity beyond their literal or direct meanings. In general, this study shows that K-pop group names do not happen by chance; instead, they have been carefully designed to reflect symbolism and branding. Therefore, this study highlights that linguistic creativity through morphology and semantics is an important factor in shaping how language can create meaning, bind cultures, and play a vital role in global entertainment.
Group naming, K-pop, morphology creativity, word formation
Copyright (c) 2026 Dinda Tri Nurhidayah, Novitri Wulandari, Dinda Ayuning Tyas, Dzaki Naufal Aziz https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Role of Social Deixis in Expressing Respect and Authority: A Study Of “Coco”
Social deixis is a key part of pragmatics that shows how language expresses respect, authority, and social ties in different cultures. Although deixis has been studied a lot, there is still not much research on how social deixis can show both authority and emotional bonds in stories with strong cultural and family themes, such as the animated film Coco. This study examines how social deixis is used in Coco (2017), focusing on how it reflects respect, authority, and emotional closeness between characters in Mexican culture. Using a qualitative descriptive method, the study reviews and analyzes all film dialogues with social deixis, sorting them into relational and absolute types based on Levinson’s theory. The findings show that relational social deixis, especially kinship terms and informal address, is most common, highlighting the importance of family ties and solidarity. Absolute deixis, though less common, points to respect and power differences. The study concludes that social deixis in Coco helps build cultural identity and share moral values, showing how film language connects cultural and emotional understanding. Future research could compare how social deixis appears in different cultures and media to deepen our understanding of language, culture, and communication.
Copyright (c) 2026 Noor Assyifa Assyifa, Nazwa Sahara Azhar, Nazwa Amalia Putri Nasution, Kevindo Silalahi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Analysis Word of Abbreviations Used by Gen Z on Twitter (X): Qualitative Study
This research discusses the abbreviations of words used on Twitter (X) by Gen Z. This study aims to analyze the categorization and functions of abbreviations used by Generation Z on the Twitter (X) platform. This research is based on theories of Schendl (2001) and Jakobson (1960). The study employs a qualitative descriptive method with a thematic analysis design, analyzing screenshot-based textual data. The findings indicate that the dominant type of abbreviation is Initialism, totalling 20 instances, which is defined as an abbreviation where each letter is pronounced separately. This is followed by Clipping, which consists of 10 instances and refers to a shortened form of a word. Blends recorded the same frequency, 10 instances, referring to words formed by combining two or more words. Next, Acronyms appeared 7 instances, defined as abbreviations pronounced as regular words. Lastly, Contractions were found in 3 instances, referring to two words combined into one using an apostrophe (’). This study not only identifies patterns of digital language development among Generation Z but also contributes academically to current digital linguistics studies. These findings enrich our understanding of how social media communication practices influence language change, especially in the use of word abbreviations. In addition, this study has significant social implications, particularly in efforts to improve digital literacy and to design communication strategies better suited to the characteristics of the younger generation in the technological era.
Copyright (c) 2026 Valentine Pebriyanti, Rossy Halimatun Rosyidah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Deixis in Song Lyrics: A Pragmatic Analysis of Wiz Khalifa’s ‘See You Again’ and ‘Roll Up’
This study analyses the types of deixis found in Wiz Khalifa’s selected songs through a pragmatic lens. Deixis, the study of how language elements refer to contextual features such as participants' roles and their social and temporal settings, is examined based on Brown and Levinson’s (1978) theory. The research employs a qualitative approach, involving the listening to and transcribing of the lyrics, followed by categorizing deixis expressions. A total of 343 occurrences of deixis were identified, with person deixis (262 instances) being the most frequent, followed by spatial deixis (15), temporal deixis (59), and discourse deixis (7). This finding shows that person deixis dominates in expressive and narrative lyrics of both songs because it directly involves the speaker and the addressee, making the message more personal and relatable to listeners.
deixis, See You Again, Roll Up, pragmatics, linguistics
Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Yusuf, Afriana https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Old vs. New Money in The Great Gatsby (2013) and Indonesian Culture: A Marxist Film Analysis
The representation of wealth and how it is inherited often determines a person's position in the social structure. The difference between old wealth and new wealth reflects different lifestyles, values, and forms of social recognition. This study aims to analyze Baz Luhrmann’s 2013 film adaptation of The Great Gatsby, how the film depicts class and social inequality, and reflect on its relevance to contemporary Indonesian society. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, the analysis focuses on cinematic elements such as setting, characters, and visual symbols that represent the contrast between “old money” and “new money.” Guided by Marxist theory, this study explores how the film depicts class struggle, capitalism, and the illusion of social mobility. The results of the study reveal two key findings. First, the film affirms that new wealth does not automatically confer cultural legitimacy, as the social structure remains controlled by established groups. Second, this representation is relevant to the Indonesian context, where differences in lifestyle, access, and privilege between “old money” and “new money” are still strongly visible in urban social life. However, this study has limitations because it only examines one film and does not use empirical data from Indonesian society. Overall, The Great Gatsby criticizes capitalist inequality and illustrates how class divisions persist over time, both in 1920s America and in Indonesia today.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nazwa Maisya Nasution, Alifah Hasti Nayla, May Debora Lovefian Br. Manurung, Raden Roro Diandra Putri Amanda https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Preserving Indigenous Papuan Communication Practices in the Era of Globalization: The Kaonak Greeting Tradition
In the era of globalization, Western communicative norms increasingly shape global interaction and often overshadow indigenous practices with deep cultural significance. This study examines Kaonak, a traditional Papuan greeting, to explore how indigenous communication systems function as cultural preservation and subtle resistance to homogenization. Using a qualitative ethnographic design, data were gathered from five indigenous Papuans in Jayapura through interviews, participant observations, and field notes, then analyzed using Miles and Huberman’s interactive model. The findings show that Kaonak embodies the Papuan philosophy of basodara (brotherhood), expressing unity, respect, and relational harmony. Although modernization has reduced its use among younger generations, the greeting remains meaningful for those who view it as cultural heritage. Its continued practice reflects an assertion of identity and a moral worldview rooted in Papuan cosmology. The study argues that sustaining Kaonak contributes to cultural resilience and highlights the importance of integrating indigenous communicative traditions into educational and intercultural programs.
cultural resilience, globalization, indigenous communication, Kaonak greeting, Papuan culture,
Copyright (c) 2026 Tegar Aulia, Sofyan Hidayat https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Language, Power, and Identity: A Sociolinguistic Study of The Alas Language
This study investigates Mekhadat, a ritual speech performed in Alas wedding ceremonies, from a sociolinguistic perspective focusing on language, power, and identity. Using qualitative methods, including participant observation and interviews with community elders, the study explores how Mekhadat embodies ecological metaphors, symbolic authority, and cultural identity. The findings reveal that natural and agricultural imagery, such as rice and water, is central to the discourse, reflecting the Alas community's ecological worldview and their emphasis on fertility, harmony, and prosperity. The study also highlights the power dimension, where only elders or traditional leaders are authorized to deliver Mekhadat, thus legitimizing authority through language in line with Bourdieu's notion of symbolic power. Furthermore, Mekhadat functions as a cultural marker, strengthening collective identity and transmitting values ​​across generations. These findings suggest that Mekhadat is not simply a ritual performance but also a place where ecological wisdom, social hierarchy, and cultural identity converge. This study contributes to broader discussions in sociolinguistics by demonstrating how ritual discourse in minority languages ​​functions as a medium for cultural continuity and symbolic negotiation
Copyright (c) 2026 Saddam Hasrul, Efendi Barus, Manugeren https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Headline Construction In @Jakarta.Keras Instagram Account: Systemic Functional Linguistics Approach
This study analyzed how the Instagram account @jakarta.keras constructed its news headlines through a system of transitivity within the framework of Systemic Functional Linguistics (SFL) proposed by Halliday and Matthiessen (2014). Using a qualitative descriptive method, fifty news headlines were collected and analyzed to identify six types of processes: material, mental, relational, verbal, behavioral, and existential. The results show that material processes dominate (50%) with an emphasis on concrete actions and real events, followed by relational (18.48%), mental (17.39%), verbal (11.96%), and existential (2.17%) processes, with no behavioral processes found. This dominance indicates that @jakarta.keras tends to frame social reality through action-oriented narratives that highlight specific events and figures. Mental and relational processes contribute to the formation of emotional engagement and social judgment, while verbal and existential processes strengthen credibility and the discovery of new things. Overall, this study found that language in digital news headlines not only functions as a means of conveying information, but also as a strategic tool in constructing meaning and ideology.
Copyright (c) 2026 Jodi Cahya, Donal Fernado Lubis https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
How Betrayal and Mental Struggle Are Represented through Lyrics: Ideational Metafunction Study of Yebba’s My Mind
Language is very important because people use it to share their thoughts and feelings. This study talks about how a singer named Yebba shows her feelings of betrayal and sadness in her song My Mind. Many people listen to songs, but not many understand how the words in a song can show deep emotions. The purpose of this study is to find out how Yebba uses language to express her mental struggle and broken heart. The writers used a qualitative method, which means studying the song’s lyrics carefully to find the meaning behind the words. The research used Halliday’s Systemic Functional Linguistics, especially the part called transitivity, which looks at actions, feelings, and people in sentences. The results show that most of the sentences use material processes, which describe real actions like closing the door or leaving. There are also mental processes that show what the singer thinks and feels, and relational processes that describe what something is like. The song uses language to show both outside actions and inner emotions. In the end, this study shows that Yebba’s My Mind tells the story of betrayal and emotional pain through the way the words are used. It also helps us understand how songs can use simple language to show deep feelings. The study suggests that other researchers can use this method to study different songs and learn how singers express their emotions through words.
Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Dzimar, Syafhika Rosilatu Zahra, Dewi Puspitasari https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Investigating EFL Students’ Perception on The Use of Digital Storytelling (DST) In Learning to Speak English
The aim of this study was to investigate how EFL students saw the application of Digital Storytelling (DST) as a means to support their English. The aims are to establish the advantages of the application of Digital Storytelling (DST) at school and to examine how the students view DST as a way of supporting their speaking. The study is conducted at SMAN 1 Sindang, Indramayu, involving 44 senior high school participants. For the sake of obtaining overall data, a mixed method was utilized through the use of questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The results indicated that students have positive attitudes towards DST, demonstrating how DST makes them more motivated, creative, and confident in delivering their messages in English. In addition to encouraging learners to become active in studying, DST is a great avenue for fluency, pronunciation, and vocabulary practice. However, it was also mentioned that some of the issues were quoted, such as a lack of technical knowledge and a shortage of resources. The significance of the findings is the potential of DST as an effective pedagogical instrument that integrates technology application and language learning. The implication of the study is that DST is effective in developing student engagement and speaking skills. Further research is recommended to investigate its long-term impact and explore its application in other language skills and educational environments.
Copyright (c) 2026 Atikah Wati, Anita , Ida Yulianawati https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Analysis of Speech Acts Found in The Text of Timun Emas
This study investigated the speech acts found in the text of Timun Emas. This research applied a deductive-inductive method in getting the data found in the Timun Emas texts. Data analysis aimed to get the information used as a basis for making decisions to solve a problem. The data analysis process in this research is stated as the process of grouping data according to its characteristics, creating a data grouping model and obtaining important information from the data in the text. In data analysis, this research analyzed the data in accordance with the theory used. They are analyzing the text of Timun Emas based on the types of speech acts and analyzed the social context found in the text of Timun Emas. The types of speech acts found in the text of Timus Emas are directive and commissive. It indicated that the giant had a bad intention to take Timun Emas. The findings reveal that the story predominantly contains directive and representative speech acts, reflecting the characters’ intentions to instruct, warn, and convey information. Commissive and expressive acts appear less frequently but play significant roles in expressing promises, gratitude, and emotional states. These results highlight the pragmatic richness of the folktale and its potential as a medium for teaching language functions in educational contexts.
Copyright (c) 2026 I Made Juliarta, I Gede Nika Wirawan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Barriers Faced by Students in Writing Hortatory Exposition Texts
Writing hortatory exposition texts poses considerable challenges for EFL students, particularly at the senior high school level. This study aimed to investigate the barriers faced by XI-1 students at SMAN 1 Sidayu in composing hortatory exposition texts and identify the factors influencing their writing performance. Using a descriptive quantitative approach, data were collected through students’ writing tasks and questionnaires administered to 32 participants. The research involved analysing students’ written texts and administering a questionnaire to uncover both internal and external factors. The results revealed that students struggled most with constructing arguments and applying accurate grammar, despite reporting high levels of self-motivation. Furthermore, external support from family, school, and the surrounding environment was perceived as minimal.
Copyright (c) 2026 Happy Kusuma Wardani, Nur Afifah Ichsantin, Alimin, Bariqotul Hidayah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Personality of the Main Character in The Greatest Showman Movie
This study examines the personality of the character P.T. Barnum in the film The Greatest Showman using the Five-Factor Personality theory. This film, as a modern literary work, presents a charismatic, ambitious, and complex main character, making it interesting to analyse in a more psychologically deep way. The purpose of this study is to identify Barnum's dominant personality and understand how this personality affects his social life, especially in marriage and career. The method used is descriptive qualitative by analysing important scenes in the film, including dialogue, expressions, and character interactions. The results of the study indicate that Extraversion and Openness to Experience are the two most prominent personality dimensions in Barnum. These two traits support his success in attracting public attention and building an entertainment business, but also cause tension in his relationships. These findings indicate that personality not only influences the actions of the character but also shapes the direction of his life and interactions with the surrounding environment. This study is expected to enrich the study of literary psychology, especially in understanding the dynamics of characters in films as a form of contemporary literature.
Copyright (c) 2026 Desak Gede Tarisa Mahesanti, Gek Wulan Novi Utami, Luh Putu Laksminy https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Word Structure Of Negative Prefixes In The “Wrecker” Novel
Negation is an essential aspect of communication. In English, one common morphological strategy to express negation is by attaching negative prefixes to base forms. This study analyses the morphological structure of words containing negative prefixes found in the Wrecker novel (Hiaasen 2023), based on the framework proposed by Plag (2023). In the novel, we identified a total of 89 unique words containing negative prefixes; words with the prefix un- is the most prevalent. The classification of these words reveals two distinct structural patterns (that are represented as tree diagram). The first pattern consists of a root word combined with a negative prefix, negating its meaning without altering its grammatical category. The second pattern involves more complex words, where two to three morphemes are used along with a suffix, modifying both the meaning and the word class. The findings contributed to enhance understanding of morphological patterns in literary texts, encouraging future studies to broaden the scope by analyzing additional works across various genres and authors to determine whether similar structures might persist or vary in different contexts.
Copyright (c) 2026 Andie Prasetyo, Gede Primahadi Wijaya Rajeg, Ketut Santi Indriani https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Inflectional and Derivational Morphemes in Kim Namjoon’s Speech for Youth Self-Love
Morphology plays an important role in understanding how words are formed and how meaning changes through the use of morphemes. This study aims to identify the inflectional and derivational morphemes found in Kim Namjoon’s speech at the United Nations and to analyze their grammatical functions within the context of the speech. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, the researcher analyzed the speech transcript retrieved from UNICEF’s official website. This research relied on documentation for data collection and employed Plag’s (2003) morphological theory in the analysis process. The findings revealed that inflectional morphemes such as -s, -ed, and -ing were used to indicate number, tense, aspect, and person, ensuring grammatical accuracy and sentence clarity. Meanwhile, derivational morphemes such as -er, -ion, -ist, -able, and -ly were used to form new words and change grammatical categories, allowing the speaker to describe roles, ideas, and characteristics more precisely. Overall, the study concludes that both inflectional and derivational morphemes contribute significantly to the structure, clarity, and grammatical coherence of the speech, highlighting the importance of morphology in effective spoken language use.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ni Ketut Budiani https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Characteristics of Inescapable Hyperreality in The Four Stages of Simulacra in The Truman Show Movie
This study explores the hyperreality in literature by analyzing “The Truman Show” movie that was first aired in 1998. Hyperreality can be understood as the collapsed boundaries between reality and simulation. It is created through the building blocks called simulacra. Using Baudrillard (1981)’s theory of hyperreality, the research examines what characteritics of inescapable hyperreality are pictured in each orders of the four stages of simulacra in the movie. This study applied qualitative approach to analyze the characteristics of inescapable hyperreality in the four stages of simulacra, which includes blurring boundaries, media influence, absence of originality, and idealized reality. This study found the first order of simulacra represent the characteristics of blurring boundaries and idealized reality. The second order of simulacra represent the characteristics of blurring boundaries, media influence, and idealized realities. The third order of simulacra represent the characteristic of blurring boundaries, media influence, and the absence of originality. The fourth order of simulacra represent the characteristic of blurring boundaries, media influence, absence of originality, and idealized reality. This study aims to fill the gap from previous studies to provide a fresh perspective on how language constructs and reinforces hyperreality by focusing on the verbal elements.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sheila Nuraini, I Made Netra https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Exploring Teachers’ Techniques for Introducing English Vocabulary to Young Learners
English is the global communication language. It makes English is one of the subjects taught to students from an early age. The introduction of English vocabulary is one of the important materials taught to young learners. At a young age level, learners naturally have the ability to grasp new information quickly but they are still emotionally unstable. They have different characteristics and learning preferences from adults. That’s why teachers must create a suitable learning atmosphere through good and creative teaching techniques so that students are encouraged to be active in the teaching and learning process. Therefore, this article aims to explain some English vocabulary teaching techniques that can be applied by teachers for young learners. The method used is descriptive qualitative research. The researcher interviewed 4 teachers, observed teaching and learning activities in the classroom and conducted a documentation study to collect data. The results showed that there are several techniques used to teach vocabulary to young learners. These techniques are singing, using pictures and drawing, listening and repeating, using real objects, using videos and question and answer.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dickwan Keumansay, Yuniaria Sika https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Politeness in Making Requests: A Study on EFL Learners’ Communicative Strategies and Attitudes
This study highlights the importance of politeness strategies in making requests, particularly for learners of English as a Foreign Language (EFL). While numerous studies have examined politeness strategies in teacher-student interactions within EFL classrooms, few have focused on EFL learners’ own perceptions and attitudes toward these strategies in making requests. This study aims to investigate how EFL learners perceive and apply politeness strategies in request speech acts in relation to their communication strategies and pragmatic awareness. Employing a quantitative descriptive design, the study involved nine students from the English Education study program who had completed the Semantics and Pragmatics course. Data were collected using a closed-ended questionnaire based on a Likert scale, developed in reference to Brown and Levinson’s politeness theory. Responses were gathered via Google Forms and analyzed using descriptive statistical methods to determine the frequency and percentage of politeness strategy preferences. The findings indicate that participants predominantly preferred positive politeness, negative politeness, and off-record strategies, while bald on-record strategies were generally avoided due to their perceived impoliteness. The study concludes that EFL learners demonstrate a solid level of pragmatic competence and tend to select politeness strategies that promote respectful and harmonious communication. These findings suggest the need for more explicit instruction on pragmatic aspects of language use in EFL curricula to further enhance learners’ communicative effectiveness.
Copyright (c) 2025 Vina Fathira, Gunaldi Masbiran https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Tracing Historical Linguistic Kinship: A Lexicostatistical Study on Dayak Ngaju and Banjar Kuala Languages in Kalimantan
This study investigates the lexical kinship between the Dayak Ngaju and Banjar Kuala languages in Kalimantan through a lexicostatistical approach, driven by the urgent need to map and preserve under-researched Austronesian languages. The primary aim is to determine the degree of linguistic relatedness based on core vocabulary and to classify their historical relationship. Employing a quantitative descriptive design, the study analyzed 200 basic vocabulary items drawn from Lexirumah and the Austronesian Basic Vocabulary Database using purposive sampling. Data were processed using Microsoft Excel and analyzed through Swadesh’s lexicostatistical formula to calculate the percentage of cognates and determine the genealogical classification. The results reveal a lexical similarity of 31%, categorizing the relationship as a “stock” level of kinship according to Keraf’s classification. These findings support the hypothesis that the two languages share a historical connection, confirming systematic phonological correspondences such as apocope, apheresis, and metathesis. The study contributes to comparative historical linguistics and provides practical implications for language preservation, curriculum development, and further field-based linguistic research in Kalimantan and beyond.
Lexicostatistics, Dayak Ngaju, Banjar Kuala, Language Kinship
Copyright (c) 2026 Tiara Dwi Saputri Saputri, Misrita, Imam Qalyubi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Code Mixing By Jennifer Bachdim in Melaney Ricardo’s Youtube Content
This research analyses the types of code mixing and the context of the situation from the code mixing used in the conversation. The study applies the theory of code mixing by Muysken and the context of the situation by Halliday and Hassan. The data sources are the selected sentences, phrases, and clauses from a video titled JEN “IRFAN LAGI TIDAK BERKERJA! JADI SEKARANG SAYA YANG KERJA!” on Melaney Ricardo's YouTube Channel that were analysed with qualitative data analysis. The result shows that three types of code mixing were found in the content. There were insertion 15 occurrences, alternation 6 occurrences, and congruent lexicalization 6 occurrences. In this case, three components of the context of situation were analysed from the conversation. There were field, tenor, and mode.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ni Kadek Maritya Suari, Ni Luh Putu Krisnawati, Gede Primahadi Wijaya Rajeg https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Deep Learning as a Tool for Business Language Mastery: A Focus on the Economics Students of Universitas Maarif Hasyim Latif
This study examines the effectiveness of deep learning strategies in enhancing business language mastery among economics students at Universitas Maarif Hasyim Latif. The primary goal was to assess whether deep learning techniques could improve students' proficiency in business English and their ability to apply the language in real-world business contexts. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through pre- and post-test assessments, surveys, interviews with lecturers, and classroom observations. The results indicated significant improvements in students' business language skills, with an average increase of 18% in language proficiency across various areas, including vocabulary, grammar, writing, listening, and speaking. Additionally, students reported greater confidence in using business English, and lecturers observed higher engagement and critical thinking among students. The study concludes that deep learning strategies are highly effective in enhancing both linguistic and cognitive skills, providing valuable insights for future educational practices in business English instruction
Copyright (c) 2025 Fitri Nurhidayati, Sri Sumrati https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Users’ Comments on Tiktok Account of Ishowspeed: A Study Morphological Errors Analysis
This study aims to analyse morphological errors found in the comment section of the TikTok account @iShowSpeed, focusing on inflectional, derivational, and compound morphology. Researchers used a qualitative descriptive approach. The data were collected through online observation on social media and document which were screenshot from social media. The data were collected using purposive sampling from users written comments on Tiktok account @iShowSpeed. The results showed that the most frequent errors were related to grammatical realization, which encompasses both syntactic and morphological issues. The most common issues were verb phrase errors, such as missing auxiliary verbs or incorrect tense usage (e.g., "Amy better than you" instead of "Amy is better than you"). Additionally, derivational errors were also common, including incorrect word forms like "retirement" used instead of "retiring," or misused affixes such as "employee" employed as a verb. In contrast, compound morphology showed fewer errors, with correct examples like “livestreams” being commonly used. These findings indicate that users often prioritize speed and informality in digital communication, leading to frequent morphological inaccuracies. This research highlights the influence of social media on language use and provides insight into the need for better morphological awareness, especially for non-native English users engaging in online discourse. The findings are crucial for developing targeted interventions in language learning curricula and informing digital literacy programs on effective online communication skills.
Copyright (c) 2026 Suparwoto Sapto Wahono, Nadia Dwi Rahmawati, Sulistiana Khofifah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Character Analysis in The Movie Inside Out Base in Vladimir Propp's Theory
This study analyses the characters and narrative structure of the animated film Inside Out (2015) through the lens of Vladimir Propp’s Morphology of the Folktale. While Propp’s theory, originally developed for Russian folktales, identifies thirty-one narrative functions and seven spheres of action in traditional storytelling, this research investigates its applicability to a modern psychological animated film featuring emotion-based characters. The study employs qualitative narrative analysis to map Inside Out’s characters such as Joy, Sadness, Bing Bong, and others, into Propp’s character roles such as hero, helper, donor, and villain, and to identify how the film’s plot aligns with Propp’s narrative functions. Findings reveal that despite the absence of a conventional villain and the abstract nature of its characters, Inside Out effectively mirrors many of Propp’s narrative structures, with Joy’s emotional journey serving as the heroic quest. The study highlights how internal emotional conflicts and symbolic characters can fulfil classical narrative roles, thereby extending Propp’s theory beyond its folkloric origins to contemporary animated storytelling. This study recommends that future research apply Propp’s framework to a broader range of modern films and conduct comparative analyses across traditional folktales and contemporary media to further examine the adaptability of classical narrative models. Additionally, the study suggests the pedagogical use of animated films as effective tools for teaching narrative theory and developing students’ critical analytical skills.
Copyright (c) 2026 Umi Mujiarni, Dilla Sintia, Tiara Dwi Saputri, Misrita https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0