| This study investigates the construction of sexual identities, specifically gay identity, through recontextualization of the gay slangs or lingos, and the tactics of intersubjectivity in online interactions on Twitter. Building on the theoretical frameworks of intersubjective identity construction, recontextualization of language use in speech community, and social media interactions, the research explores how specific linguistic practice facilitate the identification and negotiation of gay identities in a digital space. The focal point of the study is the concept of recontextualization of gay slangs or lingos, in which linguistic expression are extracted from one context and recontextualized in another, while interacting with other online users, allowing for the creation and assertion identities in online interactions. The data includes 200 Tweets collected from Twitter. The study employs Twitter Advanced Search, NCapture, and NVivo to collect and analyze data on the use of Twitter slangs in constructing sexual identity. Twitter Advanced Search facilitates the retrieval of specific tweets by keywords, phrases, or hashtags within set date ranges. NCapture, a browser extension, is used to capture tweets for research purposes, allowing for context-rich datasets. These datasets are imported into NVivo, a qualitative data analysis software, for coding and detailed analysis. This methodological approach ensures a comprehensive examination of how Twitter slangs or lingos are used in identity construction through the process of recontextualization. The findings show that the process involves the use of specific slangs or lingos that are deeply embedded in the gay male subculture and are recontextualized in the online sphere. The specific lingos examined in this research such as “slay”, “serve”, “ate” and “mother” are not only linguistic markers but tools for negotiating and aligning meanings among user, thereby constructing a shared identity and experience. In conclusion, the recontextualization of these slangs or lingos in online interactions illustrates the role of their use in affirming and signaling gay sexual identity. By embracing and popularizing these lingos in online space, the members of the community not only assert their identities but also create a shared social and cultural lexical feature that promotes their identity online. Through language, online environment such as Twitter plays a vital room where individuals identify as gay or a member of LGBTQ community, can express themselves authentically, form connections, and contribute to the modification of gay language expression. |