ALI EVBAYIRO

The aim of the study was to conduct an in-depth analysis of the language usedbytheGeneration Z, with a focus on its usage in various contexts while its specific objectivesare to investigate the distinctive language patterns that define GenerationZ'scommunication style and explore how this language is utilized in dif erent settings. Themethod of data collection for this study was a mixed-methods approach, combiningbothprimary and secondary language samples. The data was analyzed by using the SpeechAct Theory. The findings are: Generation Z's communication style is distinct andnuanced, making it challenging to decipher the intended meaning behind their utterances. If not properly understood, their messages can be misinterpreted, leading to potential miscommunication. In addition, the communication style of Generation Zdif erssignificantly from those of Millennial and previous generations, marked by the seamlessintegration of slang, indigenous languages, such as Yoruba, and digital language featurecharacterized by frequent code-switching and code-mixing. Furthermore, their languageuse patterns are highly adaptive and context-dependent. The study recommends furtherstudies by researchers, scholars or anyone interested in the Language use patternsof Generation z to document and preserve Generation Z’s language use patterns, integrateGeneration Z’ language use patterns into language education, create language archivesand databases.