Linguistic Play as Digital Prokem: A Case Study in the Facebook Group ‘Omke Gams Vromtherhood’

Abstract

This study explores linguistic play through the intentional insertion of the letters “M” and “N” in online captions posted by a user named Bayu in the Facebook group Omke Gams Vromtherhood. The modified spellings—such as "damri" for "dari" or "efisemnsi" for "efisiensi"—are analyzed as a form of digital prokem, a localized language style shaped by humor, subcultural identity, and social commentary. Using qualitative content analysis, the study identifies patterns in these orthographic alterations and interprets their function in group dynamics. The findings reveal that this language play strengthens group cohesion, reflects resistance to linguistic norms, and fosters a sense of digital solidarity. The research highlights the role of informal language innovation in shaping identity within closed online communities.