Thai LGBTQ+ Colloquials Through the Lens of Construction Grammar

Language, as a dynamic and evolving entity, reflects the nuances and identities of its speakers. In the vibrant tapestry of linguistic diversity, colloquials are a fascinating facet, often distinct from formal language. Colloquials are not merely slang; they encompass a wide range of linguistic constructions that encapsulate the authentic expressions and shared meanings within particular groups. To better understand and explore the intricacies of these colloquials within the Thai LGBTQ+ community, we turn to the framework of construction grammar (Goldberg 1995).

Construction grammar provides an apt lens for this exploration. According to Goldberg (2003), a construction is defined as "a form–meaning pair" (F-S) and represents a unit of knowledge, emphasizing the inseparability of form and meaning in language. Furthermore, construction grammar introduces the critical criterion of non-predictability, acknowledging that a construction incorporates elements of form or meaning that cannot be deduced purely through linguistic analysis. In the context of Thai LGBTQ+ colloquials, constructions become a fundamental element for examining their unique linguistic expressions and the cultural meanings they convey.

The data for this investigation were gathered from the LGBTQ+ vlogger group known as "Hiw Whee," operating on their official YouTube channel, "Hiwwhee Official." The group is composed of five main characters: Nutt Nisamanee, Eclair Juepak, Alie Blackcobra, Mix Chaleomsri, and Erk Charrissa. This selection of data sources is motivated by the extensive and diverse database at their disposal. The Hiw Whee vlogger group celebrates a decade of existence in December 2022, marking their enduring influence in the world of Thai LGBTQ+ content creation. Their content reflects the natural and diverse use of LGBTQ+ colloquials in the Thai context, as they engage in authentic conversations, often involving larger team members working behind the scenes who occasionally make on-camera appearances. Each member of the group embodies unique characters, contributing to a rich variety of linguistic expressions that mirror the diversity within Thai LGBTQ+ community.

Employing a methodology that combines conversational analysis, close reading, and critical discourse analysis under the framework of construction grammar, this research seeks to categorize the most common Thai LGBTQ+ colloquials with their variations based on pragmatic use. The colloquials are also analyzed based on their syntactic structures, semantics, and collocates. This comprehensive approach allows for a deeper exploration of the intricacies of these colloquials, going beyond mere linguistic form to unveil the cultural, social, and identity-related facets they embody.

This paper sheds light on the underexplored terrain of Thai LGBTQ+ colloquials and their construction-based linguistic expressions. As these colloquials continue to influence and guide the way the public uses language, this study presents a crucial opportunity to comprehend their nuances and cultural significance within the broader linguistic landscape. In doing so, it adds a valuable perspective to our understanding of the dynamic interplay between language, identity, and community within the Thai LGBTQ+ context.