AIGC Words and the Lexical System in the Digital and Intelligent Era: From Language Shock to Language Planning

Abstract

This study uses a corpus generated by ChatGPT to apply cognitive linguis-tics, philosophy of technology, and sociolinguistics in analyzing how genera-tive AI impacts the Chinese lexical system. Grounded in the “replication-variationselection” model of language evolution, the research finds that ab-stract concepts created by AI mimic human conceptual systems via “algo-rithmic metaphors,” yet lack experiential grounding. Platform algorithms re-structure language dissemination, establishing a “digital register” communi-cation hierarchy, while the technological framework leads to a vocabulary hollowing effect, necessitating a new “algorithm governance” dimension in language planning. The study offers a theoretical framework for human-ma-chine language interaction, suggests AI language ethics policies, and rede-fines traditional language evolution models by proposing a three-stage process: “variation-algorithm screening-platform diffusion.” It extends meme theory, identifying “technological memes” as engineering-driven replications. Practically, it provides strategies for language planning by advocating trans-parency, diversity, and morality as core algorithm planning principles, help-ing to address language alienation, maintain a dynamic balance between innovation and standardization, and support effective communication and the healthy evolution of language in the age of generative AI.