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Communicative Functions of Hashtags

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  • Laucuka Aleksandra

    (The University of Latvia, Riga, Latvia)

Abstract

Despite the initial function of hashtags as tools for sorting and aggregating information according to topics, the social media currently witness a diversity of uses diverging from the initial purpose. The aim of this article is to investigate the communicative functions of hashtags through a combined approach of literature review, field study and case study. Different uses of hashtags were subjected to semantic analysis in order to disclose generalizable trends. As a result, ten communicative functions were identified: topic-marking, aggregation, socializing, excuse, irony, providing metadata, expressing attitudes, initiating movements, propaganda and brand marketing. These findings would help to better understand modern online discourse and to prove that hashtags are to be considered as a meaningful part of the message. A limitation of this study is its restricted volume.

Suggested Citation

  • Laucuka Aleksandra, 2018. "Communicative Functions of Hashtags," Economics and Culture, Sciendo, vol. 15(1), pages 56-62, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:vrs:ecocul:v:15:y:2018:i:1:p:56-62:n:6
    DOI: 10.2478/jec-2018-0006
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