The 'Empty Content' Phenomenon: How a Japanese Phrase on X Reflects Modern Communication
On the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the phrase “中身がない” (nakami ga nai), meaning “lacking substance” or “empty,” has been trending across a wide range of user posts. This phrase is used in diverse contexts, from criticizing frivolous remarks and actions to self-perception and even interactions between idols and fans, highlighting various perspectives on modern communication and values. Most notably, “lacking substance” is used as a critique of others’ words and behaviors. Many users are sounding the alarm against speeches and discussions that are lengthy but unclear in their main points – for example, the verbose and often nonsensical communication style derisively called “Ogajun-kōbun” – or long tweets that are “all momentum and no substance,” made easier to produce with the spread of AI. These users point out a tendency to prioritize emotions and superficial “insta-worthiness” over facts, or highlight political arguments that lack logic, warning that such communication ...