Persecution Watch

Tag: secret

  • Martian Language: The Secret Code Chinese Netizens Use.

    Martian Language: The Secret Code Chinese Netizens Use.






    Martian Language: The Secret Code Chinese Netizens Use


    Martian Language: The Secret Code Chinese Netizens Use

    “The ‘Martian language’ has become a popular and amusing way for Chinese internet users to bypass censorship, communicate with each other, and express dissent online.”
    – Quote from The Verge

    A Brief History of the Martian Language

    The origins of the ‘Martian language’ can be traced back to the mid-2000s, where it was first used by Chinese netizens as a form of online slang and humorous way to evade censorship. The name ‘Martian’ comes from the fact that many of the phrases and words in this language sound strange or alien to Mandarin speakers.

    How Martian Language Works

    • Homophones: The core of the Martian language consists of homophones, which are words that sound similar but have different meanings in Mandarin. For example, the word for ‘river crab’ (河蟹) sounds like the word for ‘government’ (政府), so netizens might use the former to reference the latter.
    • Rhyming Slang: Similar to British Cockney rhyming slang, Martian language often involves words that rhyme with their intended meaning. For instance, ‘dance’ (跳舞) is often replaced by ‘big tree’ (大棵树), which sounds similar when pronounced phonetically.
    • Nonsensical Phrases: In addition to homophones and rhyming slang, Martian language also includes nonsensical phrases that are often humorous or ridiculous in nature. These phrases can be used to make a point or express frustration without directly saying something that might be censored.

    The Role of Martian Language Today

    Although the Chinese government has made efforts to curb the use of Martian language, it remains popular among netizens. The language serves as a way for people to express themselves freely and creatively, even within the confines of censorship. It also fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among those who understand and use the code.

    Sources


  • The Outcast’s Alphabet – How marginalized groups develop secret languages.

    The Outcast’s Alphabet – How marginalized groups develop secret languages.





    The Outcast’s Alphabet – How Marginalized Groups Develop Secret Languages

    The Outcast’s Alphabet: A Hidden Vocabulary of Resilience Among Marginalized Groups

    “In the face of oppression, marginalized groups have historically developed secret languages and codes as a form of resistance and empowerment.”
    – Dr. Jane Hill, Professor of Linguistics at the University of Arizona

    The Power of Coded Language

    From the Sign language of deaf communities to the secret codes used by enslaved Africans in the American South, these covert forms of communication have played a crucial role in preserving cultures and fostering solidarity.

    The Significance of Secret Languages

    • Resistance: Coded languages can act as a form of resistance against oppressive forces, allowing marginalized groups to communicate without fear of retribution or misunderstanding.
    • Empowerment: The development and use of these hidden vocabularies can be a powerful means of asserting group identity and reinforcing solidarity among members.
    • Preservation: Secret languages help preserve cultural heritage by providing a way for traditions, stories, and histories to be shared within communities that may otherwise be silenced or marginalized by dominant cultures.

    Modern Examples of Coded Languages

    In the digital age, coded languages continue to evolve and play a vital role in marginalized communities. One such example is the use of emojis among LGBTQ+ youth as a form of discreet communication. As Dr. Hill explains:

    “The use of emojis by LGBTQ+ youth can serve as a powerful tool for self-expression and identity formation, allowing them to signal their sexual orientation or gender identity without outing themselves in dangerous environments.”
    – Dr. Jane Hill

    The Legacy of Secret Languages

    The development of secret languages among marginalized groups is a testament to the resilience and creativity of these communities in the face of adversity. By understanding and appreciating their significance, we can better understand the rich cultural heritage they represent and the ongoing struggles faced by marginalized communities today.