The Culture of Swearing ‘Anjing’: An Ethnography Study of Indonesia Football Supporters

Abstract

 

In the realm of sports, dogs have transitioned from being symbols and mascots to becoming objects of swearing by humans, reflecting spontaneous emotional expressions. Indonesian football supporters use the word 'Anjing' (meaning 'dog') to convey their emotions while watching live matches. This study aims to analyze the meaning and messages conveyed using 'Anjing' as a swearing object. Employing the theory of Ethnography of Communications, specifically Dell Hymes' 'speaking' analysis, this qualitative research observes supporter behavior during fifteen national and international football matches from June 2022 to June 2023. The findings suggest that swearing can become a cultural phenomenon as a degrading tool for others, characterized by human behavior and mindsets that are passed down to future generations. As a target of swearing, 'Anjing' holds a universal meaning, with both positive and negative connotations. The term "Anjing" used pejoratively, emerges from the knowledge and experiential background of the individual uttering it. This context arises from long- standing social perceptions within their milieu, wherein dogs are perceived as thieving creatures and possess undesirable qualities. Additionally, these perceptions are also notably influenced by religious considerations, particularly within the dominant Islamic framework in Indonesia, where there exists a prevailing belief that dogs are impure animals. Consequently, the recipient of the derogatory term is subjected to a degrading state, resulting in their perceived lack of worthiness to attain an equal standing among their fellow human beings.