ILEIID 2025 | International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS)
ISSN: 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS
Special Issue | Volume IX Issue XXIV October 2025
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A Qualitative analysis of Vocabulary Profiling in Educational Tiktok
Videos for English Learning
1
Nurul Hidayah Zainal Abidin *
2
Fairuz Husna Mohd Yusof
1 2
Akademi Pengajian Bahasa, University Technology MARA, Malaysia
*Corresponding Author
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2025.924ILEIID0049
Received: 23 September 2025; Accepted: 30 September 2025; Published: 30 October 2025
ABSTRACT
This study investigates vocabulary profiling in educational TikTok videos for English learning, aiming to
identify vocabulary types and their contextual applications. Grounded in Multimodal Discourse Analysis
(MDA), the research addresses the problem of limited systematic studies on TikTok’s role in vocabulary
instruction within non-native English contexts. A qualitative design was employed, using purposive sampling
of 10 high-engagement TikTok videos. Data were collected through video retrieval and analysed using a
structured coding framework and thematic analysis. Findings indicate that most videos prioritize formal
vocabulary, while informal expressions appear strategically for engagement. Additionally, formal vocabulary is
often framed for both academic and professional contexts, and multimodal elements such as captions and
voice-overs enhance word salience. These results suggest that TikTok can support microlearning. The study
implies the need for structured integration of TikTok in language pedagogy and recommends future research on
larger samples for better learning outcomes.
Keywords: Vocabulary Profiling, Multimodal Discourse Analysis (MDA), TikTok
INTRODUCTION
Social media is now viewed as a centre of entertainment and learning for many Malaysian youths. Available
platforms provide learners with various videos, live chats for questions and short how-to clips that also host
lessons. Recent estimates highlight that there is a high engagement of social media among Malaysians,
including youth demographics (DataReportal, 2024). It was found by Malaysian higher education that students
actively adopt social media as part of their study practices, which is linked to improved academic performance
(Al-Rahmi et al., 2022). Al-Rahmi et al. (2022) stated that it has been observed that screens have become
classrooms for informal but purposeful learning. One of the prominent social media platforms used in
Malaysia is TiKTok.
Despite rapid TikTok’s growth among Malaysians, many learners do not use it for vocabulary study. Although
there are short and motivating clips, they are lacking in terms of explanations on how the vocabularies can be
used to form meanings. A recent scoping review highlights that while there are promising TikTok features that
could be beneficial for ESL lessons, classroom applications remain uneven and underexplored (Tan et al.,
2022). It is undeniable that there are advantages of learning vocabulary using TikTok that should be
acknowledged. Thus, there is a need to design lessons that transform watching into beneficial word learning. A
study that profiles vocabulary in educational TikTok can clarify what learners actually encounter in the videos/
reels and also guide teachers toward concise, targeted interventions that make microlearning stick in everyday
practice.
ILEIID 2025 | International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS)
ISSN: 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS
Special Issue | Volume IX Issue XXIV October 2025
Page 471
www.rsisinternational.org
LITERATURE REVIEW
Theoretical Framework
Multimodal Discourse Analysis (MDA)
Multimodal Discourse Analysis (MDA) is an essential framework for understanding how various
communicative modes, such as visual, auditory, textual, and gestural, work together to construct meaning in
discourse. Rooted in semiotic theory, MDA analyses how these modes interact within specific contexts to
create a cohesive narrative or message (O’Halloran, 2021). For platforms like TikTok, where videos combine
different modes in
a short-form format, MDA provides an invaluable tool for exploring how these modes function in enhancing
vocabulary acquisition. Li et al. (2023) suggest that MDA allows researchers to examine how multiple modes
complement each other in fostering engagement and comprehension, especially in the context of language
learning. TikTok videos often use visuals such as facial expressions, animations, and 15 on-screen text,
alongside auditory cues like music and voice-overs, to create a rich, multimodal environment that aids learners
in acquiring new vocabulary. The integration of these modes in TikTok videos did more than just adding layers
of meaning, as it created a synergistic effect where each mode enhanced the others, leading to better learning
outcomes. Edwards (2023) highlights that visual and auditory stimuli together are especially effective in
improving memory retention and comprehension.
In the case of TikTok, the use of captions or on-screen text accompanying spoken language provided learners
with multiple avenues to engage with new vocabulary. The current multimodal technique directly corresponds
to the discoveries of Canestrino et al.(2022) who reinforce the idea that language exposure to a variety of
formats contributes to cognitive processing especially in the field of education profoundly. Through MDA, this
study has revealed how TikTok multimodal characteristics enabled a better interaction with both formal and
informal vocabulary.
Connecting MDA to Past Studies and the Present Research
Previous studies have applied MDA to educational videos and classroom lessons, showing that multimodal
resources significantly influence learner engagement and meaning formation (Yang & Chen, 2022). Research
on language learning using social media also highlights that the inputs such as combining texts, sounds and
visuals could support vocabulary acquisition and learners’ retention (Li et al., 2022). In TikTok contexts,
studies report that short-form videos facilitate incidental vocabulary learning although the analysis on types of
vocabulary presented remains scarce (Lee, 2025). These findings suggest that although TikTok has the
potential to support language learning, its depth of content depends on how the multimodal elements are
organised and presented. Thus, this research addresses this gap by applying MDA to profile vocabulary in
education TikTok videos, aiming to uncover patterns that can inform effective teaching and learning strategies.
Past Studies on the Effectiveness of TikTok for Vocabulary Learning
Considering the heightened popularity of TikTok recently, there are several studies that have explored TikTok’s
role in vocabulary learning, often emphasising its engaging nature among learners. A quasi-experimental study
by Xiuwen and Razali (2021) on 60 EFL undergraduates in China which compared TikTok-based lessons with
traditional methods found significant improvement in vocabulary recall among group members that used
TikTok-based lessons, attributed to short, repetitive clips and visual cues. Nevertheless, the study addressed
challenges to sustain long-term retention if contents are developed without structured review. This suggests
that while it is undeniable that TikTok can enhance initial learning, its effectiveness for long term learning is
highly dependent on integration with systematic reinforcement strategies (Xiuwen & Razali, 2021; Rahmayani,
2022).
ILEIID 2025 | International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS)
ISSN: 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS
Special Issue | Volume IX Issue XXIV October 2025
Page 472
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Another study by Rahmayani (2022) utilised a mixed-method design on 45 Indonesian high school students to
examine TikTok’s impact on vocabulary acquisition. Results showed that students perceived TikTok as
motivating and enjoyable, which caused students to learn new words voluntarily. However, the study also
highlighted some issues on distraction from non-educational content and lack of teacher guidance while
watching the materials. These findings imply that TikTok has high potential for vocabulary learning, though its
success rate relies heavily on curated content and guides from learning content experts. (Rahmayani, 2022;
Syaifuddin et al., 2021).
Past Studies on Formal vs. Informal Vocabulary on TikTok
Syaifuddin et al. (2021) analysed 30 TikTok videos on English learning and found that the content was highly
dominated by informal vocabulary, particularly in conversational phrases and slang. The study which
employed content analysis, reported that only 35% of the words were formal and often linked to academic
writing tips. This imbalance raises concerns about learners adopting informal expressions in formal settings,
thus suggesting a need for clearer instructional learning (Syaifuddin et al., 2021; Schellewald, 2023;
Valdovinos Kaye, 2022)..
Besides that, Valdovinos Kaye (2022) examined TikTok’s cultural dynamics and noted that most influencers
often prioritise relatable, informal language to maintain viewers’ engagement. Although this approach fosters
authenticity, it may conflict with academic language goals. Similarly, Schellewald (2023) observed that the
algorithm of TikTok emphasises on entertaining contents that have potential of high engagement which often
includes colloquial vocabulary. These findings indicate that while informal language can motivate learners, it
still puts the formal language acquisition and usage in risk of jeopardy (Valdovinos Kaye, 2022; Schellewald,
2023; Syaifuddin et al., 2021).
The review of past studies reveals that TikTok has become an engaging format that supports vocabulary
learning, yet its educational impact is still inconsistent. Even though the integration of multimodal features and
language learning and teaching enhance motivation, they also introduce some challenges such as cognitive
overload and lack of academic guidance. These limitations highlight a need for an analysis of vocabulary types
and multimodal integration in educational TikTok videos to bridge the gap between the real practice and
instructional practices.
CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
The conceptual framework of the study is illustrated in Figure 1. It illustrates the relationship between TikTok
educational videos and vocabulary learning outcomes, which is mediated by multimodal elements. The
elements could be in the forms of captions, visuals, and audio, which are also TikTok’s unique elements. This
shapes the presentation and understanding of vocabulary types and their contextual uses. TikTok educational
videos serve as the independent variable influencing two main dependent variables: vocabulary types (formal
and informal) and vocabulary contexts (how formal vocabulary used for academic and professional). This
framework is grounded in Multimodal Discourse Analysis (MDA), which describes how various modes, such
as words, gestures, images, and sounds, are combined and coordinated to create and convey meaning.
Multimodal elements act as a mediating factor, determining how effectively vocabulary is conveyed and
understood. The arrows show how multimodal integration is vital for linking video content to vocabulary
learning objectives.
Figure 1. Conceptual Framework
ILEIID 2025 | International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS)
ISSN: 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS
Special Issue | Volume IX Issue XXIV October 2025
Page 473
www.rsisinternational.org
METHODOLOGY
This study uses a qualitative research design to explore vocabulary profiling in educational TikTok videos. As
stated by Bhandari (2023), qualitative design is suitable for understanding meanings, patterns and contextual
nuances. This study also examines how multimodal elements and vocabulary types interact in authentic
learning. Since real practice data is used in the study, this provides a better understanding on how vocabulary
learning could be enhanced through TikTok videos. This may address some prespectives in which quantitative
methods may not be able to capture (Yin, 2023). Thematic analysis is employed to interpret the data as it is
widely acknowledged for its flexibility to analyse qualitative date and identifying themes emerged.
(Braun & Clarked, 2021). In this study, the themes emerge from coding vocabulary types and contextual usage.
The sample of the study consists of 10 TikTok videos that specifically address English learning content. The
sample size was chosen as previous study by Abidah (2024) and Aho (2022) examined 10 and 6 videos for
vocabulary learning respectively. These justify using a small number of samples for analysing multimodal
features and vocabulary patterns. This method is also able to capture diverse vocabulary types used in various
contexts. The sample was purposively selected based on the specific criteria such as videos with high
engagement of vocabulary learning contents.
Instrument in this study involves a structured coding framework developed based on Multimodal Discouse
Analysis (MDA). For this coding sheet, vocabulary was divided into formal and informal, and from formal
vocabulary, categorised into academic or professional contexts. This is similar to the tool used by Santhi et al.
(2024)’s study which examine multimodal elements in TikTok videos with a similar coding framework.
The data collection procedure involved accessing the videos from the TikTok platform and carefully selecting
the ones that fulfilled the criteria. The duration was one month. It was then analysed using thematic analysis
through the use of coding sheet. In order to ensure validity of data, frequency counts were applied to measure
the number of occurrences of types of vocabulary and also number of formal vocabularies used in the
academic or professional contexts, ensuring that the thematic interpretation reflects real distribution patterns.
As stated by Morgan (2022), frequency counts emphasise transparency and confirm the relevance of emerging
themes in thematic analysis. To ensure reliability of the study, a reliability check was conducted using Cohen’s
Kappa, an interrater reliability test performed by an expert to measure the level of agreement in categorising
the vocabulary. The expert independently reviewed a subset of the data using the same coding guidelines. The
resulting Kappa values were 0.81 for vocabulary type and 0.76 for usage context, indicating strong agreement.
These results demonstrate that the coding was applied consistently and reliably, with minimal subjectivity in
the classification process. Halpin (2024) highlights its importance in ensuring coding consistency across
multiple coders.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
RQ1. What types of vocabulary are used in high-engagement TikTok videos aimed at English learning?
Formal vs. Informal Vocabulary Usage in TikTok Videos (V1V10)
Video ID
Formal (%)
Informal (%)
Informal Word
ount
Dominant
Vocabulary Type
V1
37%
63%
12
Informal
V2
73%
27%
3
Formal
V3
59%
41%
9
Formal
ILEIID 2025 | International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS)
ISSN: 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS
Special Issue | Volume IX Issue XXIV October 2025
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V4
75%
25%
2
Formal
V5
100%
0%
0
Formal
V6
67%
33%
7
Formal
V7
76%
24%
6
Formal
V8
63%
37%
6
Formal
V9
50%
50%
10
Balanced
V10
50%
50%
10
Balanced
The findings reveal that formal vocabulary was more prevalent than informal vocabulary in the majority of the
videos. Seven out of ten videos featured a higher proportion of formal words, with videos such as V5 and V7
displaying an overwhelming use of formal vocabulary, with 100% usage in V5 and 76% in V7. These videos
primarily introduced advanced vocabulary items such as lacklustre, assuage, opaque, and enigma, which are
suitable for academic or professional contexts. In contrast, videos such as V1 and V2 illustrate how informal
vocabulary plays a complementary role. V1, for instance, had 63% informal vocabulary, using casual
expressions in storytelling to support formal grammar instruction. However, V2, despite its casual tone,
maintained 73% formal vocabulary, demonstrating that formal transitional phrases like in short and to begin
with were taught within an informal delivery style.
Other videos such as V3, V4, V6, and V8 followed a similar pattern, blending formal vocabulary with minimal
informal expressions to enhance learner engagement. V3 introduced professional terms like communication
and adjust, while V4 showcased high-level adjectives such as infallible and jubilant. V6 featured formal
workplace-related language, including prioritise and emotionally regulate, with informal expressions like
gonna and literally adding relatability. V8 used a direct comparison between casual and formal vocabulary,
helping viewers understand and memorise terms like audible and tangible. Meanwhile, V9 and V10 presented
an even 50/50 mix, combining formal alternatives like in my opinion and frankly with informal expressions
such as I’m not gonna lie. These videos provided structured vocabulary improvement through side-by-side
substitution techniques.
Overall, the analysis shows that TikTok creators strategically combine formal and informal vocabulary to
enhance comprehension and engagement. Formal vocabulary, although dominant, is often introduced within
casual, accessible formats. This reflects a consistent pattern where informal language supports the
understanding of formal terms without reducing the educational value of the content. The blending of
vocabulary types demonstrates that high-engagement TikTok videos aimed at English learners are not only
entertaining but also effective in presenting advanced vocabulary in meaningful and memorable ways.
RQ2. How is formal vocabulary used for academic versus professional purposes as shown in popular English
educational TikTok videos?
Use of Formal Vocabulary in Academic vs. Professional Contexts (V1V10)
Video ID
Academic Use
Professional Use
Contextual Focus
V1
Grammar instruction in academic writing
V2
Structured sequencing in essays
ILEIID 2025 | International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS)
ISSN: 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS
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V3
Interpersonal language for workplace settings
V4
Adjectives relevant for formal arguments and evaluations
V5
Descriptive precision applicable in reviews and feedback
V6
Communication strategies for interview contexts
V7
Vocabulary applicable in both reports and analyses
V8
Substitution of casual terms with formal alternatives
V9
Word distinctions with wide usage in formal discourse
V10
Formal phrases adaptable to speech and essays
From the findings, it is evident that formal vocabulary on TikTok is frequently employed with purposeful
alignment to either academic or professional contexts, and in many cases, both. Videos such as V1 and V2
demonstrate a strong academic orientation. In V1, formal terms are embedded within grammar teaching that
targets sentence construction and punctuation rules, aiding learners in mastering structural accuracy for
academic writing. V2 similarly introduces higher-level organisational phrases, which encourages the
consistency of paragraph development and refining written argument flow. These are the skills necessary in
formal academic assessments.
In contrast, V3 and V6 are highly involved with professional domains. V3 included verbal tactics that are often
used in the workplace, and it employs the vocabulary that are heavily used to show emotional intelligence in
communication. On the other hand, V6 highlights expressions that are frequently used in job interviews and
performance discussions, encouraging users to express experiences with professionalism and confidence.
Videos V4 through V10 show presentations of formal vocabulary with the flexibility to serve both academic
and professional functions. In V4, for example, advanced adjectives are introduced in ways that can enhance
evaluative language in essay arguments or support objective descriptions in formal meetings. V5 further
illustrates this versatility by using formal terminology appropriate for structured reviews, allowing application
in contexts that range from classroom critique to workplace reporting. Similarly, V7 and V8 teach formal
alternatives to common expressions, promoting grammar accuracy in diverse settings. Videos such as V9 and
V10 provide direct comparisons between similar formal terms that highlight sophistication when used.
DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS
RQ1. What types of vocabulary are used in high-engagement TikTok videos aimed at English learning
The analysis revealed that most TikTok videos depicted formal vocabulary while a smaller percentage
integrated informal expression for engagement. This is congruent to the study by Syaifuddin et al. (2021)
which reported that formal terms appear in many academic-focused clips while informal vocabulary dominates
TikTok lessons driven for engagement. The presence of informal vocabulary though limited reflects as a
strategy to maintain relatability as stated by Schellewald (2023). These patterns suggest that TikTok educators
balance linguistic emphasis with audience appeal. This duality however indicated that while formal vocabulary
remains central for instructional goals, informal elements play the essential role as a bridge to sustain learner
motivation and contextual relevance. On this note, although informal vocabulary used in TikTok videos retain
learners’ engagement and make the contents relatable, it may cause some drawbacks, especially for those
aiming to improve their language skills. This is because if learners are overly exposed to casual or slang
expressions, they may be confused with the correct formal usage. Recent studies suggest that constant
exposure to informal language can influence how students write academically, which may lead them to use
inappropriate vocabulary in their essays or reports (Angelica et. al, 2023). Therefore, to address the nature of
ILEIID 2025 | International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS)
ISSN: 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS
Special Issue | Volume IX Issue XXIV October 2025
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TikTok that usually provide short videos, which may cause limited time for lessons, it should be balanced with
guidance to avoid long term-effects on learners’ academic writing competence.
Overall, the use of formal vocabulary in these videos reflects a strategic educational balance. Some videos
adopt a focused academic lens, equipping students with the linguistic tools required for examinations and
scholarly writing. Others take a practical professional angle, addressing the realities of communication in
employment contexts. However, the most effective videos are those that blur these boundaries and offer
learners vocabulary that transfers seamlessly between classrooms and workplaces. This integration suggests
that TikTok, while informal in platform design, can support serious language development when designed with
intentional instructional goals.
RQ2: How is formal vocabulary used for academic versus professional purposes as shown in popular English
educational TikTok videos?
In the results, it can be seen that the creators have a high tendency to employ formal vocabulary with a flexible
adaptation to academic and professional use. Some videos had a heavy emphasis on academic application with
sentence connectors and descriptive words used in essay writing, whereas others emphasised career-related
language with application in interviewing, communicating at work, etc. Some videos were able to unite the two
fields and displayed a trend to teach vocabulary that can be applied in multiple real-life scenarios. In total,
eight out of ten videos applied formal vocabulary in academic contexts, while seven featured usages suitable
for professional settings.
This variability substantiates the perception by Sanmee (2024), according to whom social and cultural context
is also of significance in the understanding and application of vocabulary. In the given case, despite the
widespread opinion about TikTok as an informal platform, the content has strong educational potential. It is
turned into a dynamic area where formal vocabulary may serve the needs of the academic community as well
as professional communication aims. Notably, six videos demonstrated clear dual-context application, where
vocabulary could be used in both classroom writing and workplace interactions. To give an example, videos
such as V4 and V5 proved that advanced adjectives and formal linking phrases are teachable in short videos
when complemented by examples that people can relate to or by simple explanations.
The manner in which formal vocabulary is used in all these various contexts also reflects the departure from
traditional teaching techniques, which tend to view academic and professional language as distinct. Creators
merged these goals instead of separating them. This is in line with the situation on the ground where learners
are supposed to apply formal vocabulary in various fields of their lives. The approach is aligned with the view
of Gulzar et al. (2024), who discovered that students become motivated when they find language useful outside
the classroom. Videos such as V7, V8, V9, and V10 provided vocabulary instruction that was equally relevant
for formal reports and verbal self-expression, reinforcing this combined learning goal. The results indicate that
TikTok, despite its informal nature, can address the linguistic needs of contemporary learners who have to
traverse the academic and professional landscapes.
CONCLUSION
To sum up, the paper demonstrates how the TikTok creators managed to make academic and professional
vocabulary teaching a success with careful content planning. By doing that, they provide their learners with
language input which is both realistic and adaptive and assists them in the preparation for communication in
various real-life situations. It also highlights the potential of TikTok as the potential platform for informal
learning that may be able to gauge students’ attention and motivation in vocabulary learning. For future
research, it is recommended for researchers to include learner feedback, assessments, or observational data for
data triangulation which are deemed suitable. Besides that, it is also recommended to investigate the effects of
informal vocabulary exposure on formal academic writing and professional communication. Incorporating
TikTok content into structured, teacher-guided activities may offer useful strategies for classroom application.
Additionally, long-term studies could investigate how well learners retain and apply vocabulary acquired
through TikTok, contributing to more informed language teaching practices.
ILEIID 2025 | International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS)
ISSN: 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS
Special Issue | Volume IX Issue XXIV October 2025
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
We would like to express our gratitude to Akademi Pengajian Bahasa, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia
for the support given in ensuring the success of this study.
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