Linguistic Strategies in Humorous Speech Acts among Thai People in the Context of the Thai Cambodian Border Dispute Represented in Online Media

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the linguistic strategies in humorous speech acts among Thai people in the context of the Thai–Cambodian border dispute, as represented in online media. The data comprise 60 humorous utterances collected from YouTube videos published between July and October 2025. A qualitative research approach was adopted. The research instrument was a data record form designed to categorize different types of speech acts. The results reveal six linguistic strategies in humorous speech acts among Thai people: 1) boasting, 2) expressing condescension, 3) blaming, 4) threatening, 5) teasing, and 6) satire. Each of these strategies demonstrates both humorous communication and sociopolitical criticism. These strategies share a common characteristic: the use of ambiguous language, which contains both literal and implied meanings in order to create humor, elicit smiles and laughter from recipients, and allow them to understand the underlying social and political perspectives of the current situation. Humorous speech acts in the context of the Thai–Cambodian border dispute not only provide entertainment but also serve as a communicative tool that reflects Thai identity and political thought in the digital world, using laughter to resolve conflicts and reaffirm national unity.