Internet English reflects the way language is evolving with changing patterns of communication. Acronyms such as LOL, OMG and BTW, along with emojis, hashtags, memes and slang, have created new ways for people to express thoughts, emotions and identities online. While some view these forms as a threat to traditional English, others see them as a natural development of language in the digital age.
The growing influence of internet language is also being felt in classrooms, where students sometimes carry digital expressions into assignments, examinations and quizzes.
Sumaira Noor, a lecturer of literature and linguistics at Fazaia Bilquis College of Education for Women, PAF Nur Khan, says students often use shortened forms and internet-style expressions in formal academic work, sometimes without realising that their informal digital habits have entered a formal setting.
She believes, however, that this should not necessarily be viewed as a deterioration of English. Internet language serves practical purposes, particularly in fast-paced and informal communication, while the digital world has also exposed students to new vocabulary, perspectives and learning resources. The concern arises when students lose awareness of context and begin using informal language in academic, official or literary writing. The answer, she says, lies not in banning internet language but in developing register awareness — the ability to distinguish between the language appropriate for social media and the language required in formal writing.
Teachers should encourage reading, independent writing and critical engagement with digital information while also teaching students how to use AI responsibly. As she explains, “AI is an aid to thinking, not a replacement for thinking.”
Technology can make learning richer and more accessible, but students must remain independent thinkers, readers and writers. The goal is not to reject internet English but to preserve the precision, creativity and expressive power of formal and literary English.
According to Amna Waheed, another lecturer at the same institute, internet slang and short forms have increasingly appeared in students’ formal academic writing and speaking.
Regular exposure to social media platforms such as WhatsApp and Instagram has influenced their language habits. She believes that internet language has become an unavoidable part of modern students’ lives, so it cannot simply be stopped. However, students should learn to filter what they adopt from the internet instead of blindly copying slang or informal expressions.
She has also observed major changes in students’ academic lives, as many now prefer shortcuts, summaries, and online material rather than conventional learning and reading complete books, particularly literary texts. She further believes that although technology and the internet have increased students’ confidence and access to information, excessive dependence on internet language and AI tools can negatively affect vocabulary, grammar, and creative writing skills. Students may become dependent on quick answers instead of developing independent thinking and creativity. To create a balance between modern internet language and formal literary English, Amna Waheed emphasises the shared responsibility of teachers, students, and technology developers. Teachers should encourage reading, writing, literature, and genuine learning through engaging activities. Students should use technology responsibly and creatively, while modern tools should support education without replacing critical thinking, originality, and meaningful human engagement with language and literature.
Rosheen Malik, a visiting lecturer at various universities, observes that students sometimes use internet slang and short forms such as “LOL,” “BTW,” and “IDK” in formal academic writing.
According to her, this is particularly common among students who frequently communicate through social media and messaging apps. She views the rise of internet language as a natural result of modern communication because it makes conversations faster and more informal.
However, excessive use can negatively affect students’ understanding and use of formal English.
Ms Malik also notes that the internet has brought significant changes to students’ academic lives by providing quick access to information, research materials, and educational resources. At the same time, students may become too dependent on online sources and show less interest in reading books deeply.
Regarding language skills, she explains that internet language introduces students to new words and expressions, but frequent use of shortened forms may affect grammar and sentence structure. It can also limit the use of rich and formal vocabulary in creative writing. To maintain a healthy balance, she recommends teaching students that internet and formal English have different purposes. Internet language is suitable for informal communication, while formal English should be used in academic and professional settings. Regular reading and writing activities can help students preserve strong vocabulary, grammar, and formal language skills.
In short, internet language has changed the way students communicate and learn, making communication faster, easier and more creative. However, excessive use of slang, abbreviations and digital expressions can negatively affect formal writing, grammar, vocabulary, reading habits and creativity. Therefore, technology should not be completely rejected; instead, students need contextual awareness to distinguish between informal internet language and formal academic English. Teachers should encourage reading, independent and creative writing, critical thinking and digital literacy. AI should support thinking rather than replace it. Ultimately, a balance between modern technology and formal literary English is necessary to preserve language’s richness, precision and creativity.
— The writer has worked as an intern at Dawn
Published in Dawn, October 2nd, 2026
