[File photo/ People's Daily Online]

China should “observe, guide and regulate” cyber language instead of pushing to eliminate it, according to a Chinese education official on Sept. 18.

“The communication between computers and people has created a virtual space, in which netizens can simplify their language and say whatever they want. This has led to the boom of cyber language,” explained Yao Xishuang, director of the Department of Language Application and Administration of the Ministry of Education, during an interview with People’s Daily Online.

According to a survey on cyber language conducted by People’s Daily Online in 2015, the top three buzzwords in Chinese cyberspace in 2015 were "yanzhi" (a reference to people’s physical appearances), "doubi" (a descriptor for funny and simple-minded people) and "yeshizuile" (speechless).

“As time goes by, some 'cyber words' go out of fashion and stop being used ... [Authorities] should lead the trend of cyber language, regulate online slang and get rid of vulgar expressions. Some positive cyber words that are widely used by the public can actually become part of the Mandarin language,” Yao said.

As an important part of China’s Internet culture, cyber language routinely finds its way even into the lexicons of Party and government officials. The expression  that Chinese Premier Li Keqiang used to convey the idea that those with power must not be capricious became a surprise hit among Chinese netizens last year. The expression has been a popular online phrase in China ever since, used to describe capricious behavior in a somewhat ironic way.

“Cyber words ... have been used even by Chinese leaders, which is indicative of their universality. We should analyze cyber language and guide it, rather than wipe it out,” Yao recommended.