Two varieties of Hong Kong English - language use in computer-mediated communication compared to other forms of written English among Hong Kong adolescents

Abstract

By examining the notion of Hong Kong English, and language use in computer mediated communication, this dissertation aims at distinguishing two varieties of Hong Kong English; one variety being the Hong Kong English in computer-mediated communication (CMC); and the other being Hong Kong English in other written forms. Firstly, the forms of these two varieties are discussed. Then, using the data acquired from online interviews with 16 Hong Kong adolescents, their attitudes towards both Hong Kong English in CMC and other written forms of Hong Kong English are obtained. The social functions of these two varieties are also examined. By analysing the differences in form and function between these two varieties of Hong Kong English, this dissertation argues that CMC Hong Kong English should be distinguished as a variety from other forms of written Hong Kong English.