Exploring the Agentive Role of Remnants (Cho 2019) in Neologisms: Focusing on the -fie Series

Abstract

This study explores the transformation of the -fie morpheme from a bound element within selfie to a productive unit capable of generating its series of neologisms in the digital linguistic environment. Utilizing the new concept of remnants suggested by Cho (2019), the study investigates the role of the –fie morpheme as a remnant, not a suffix. This research seeks to transcend the conventional categorization of -fie merely as a suffix, highlighting its agentive role in the semantic proliferation of -fie neologisms. Additionally, the study examines the relationship between self-portrayal via the selfie series (e.g., groupfie, bedfie, dogfie, etc.) and prevailing cultural trends, particularly emphasizing digital identity construction and self-representation. This connection underlines the significant impact of the -fie morpheme on enriching the digital language lexicon.