THE EMERGENCE OF COMPUTER TERMINOLOGY IN THE UZBEK LANGUAGE

Abstract

This article examines the emergence, development, and integration of computer and information technology (IT) terminology within the Uzbek language during the digital era. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union and Uzbekistan's transition to a Latin-based alphabet, the primary source of technological vocabulary shifted from Russian intermediaries to direct interaction with English. The study analyzes the linguistic mechanisms driving this evolution, including direct phonetic borrowing, semantic calquing, and the creation of neologisms. Furthermore, the paper addresses the challenges of linguistic standardization, highlighting the creative tension between official language policies and the colloquial preferences of tech professionals. Finally, the role of global software localization (such as Windows, Android, and Telegram) in cementing a standard digital lexicon in daily Uzbek discourse is explored.