Code Switch From gr*pists to nip nops, how self-censorship shapes the language of TikTok
Jul 9, 2025
Join TikTok creator Christian Devine and linguistics professor Kendra Calhoun as they navigate the intriguing world of self-censorship on social media. They discuss the creative use of coded language like 'unalive' to dodge platform restrictions. The duo delves into how marginalized voices adapt their speech to share their experiences, highlighting disparities in content moderation. They also examine the emotional toll on creators facing vague guidelines and the vital role TikTok plays in raising awareness about disability and social justice.
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Code Language To Bypass Algorithms
- TikTok creators use coded language like "unalive" or emojis to avoid algorithmic suppression.
- This language shift helps videos avoid being flagged or taking a hit in visibility.
Linguistic Innovation Born From Censorship
- People self-censor on TikTok due to real or perceived algorithmic suppression.
- This led to playful linguistic innovations as some treat it as a creative challenge.
Black Creators' Navigational Challenge
- Christian Devine shared that Black creators must self-censor to have political content reach audiences.
- Their existence on TikTok becomes inherently political, requiring navigation of complex censorship.