Background of the study
Social media slang—characterized by informal language, abbreviations, and creative expressions—has become a defining feature of youth communication in Nigeria. With the rapid proliferation of platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, young Nigerians increasingly engage in a dynamic digital lexicon that often departs from traditional language norms (Eze, 2023). This evolving form of communication reflects broader cultural shifts as standard linguistic conventions give way to more expressive, instantaneous modes of interaction. Social media slang not only facilitates rapid information exchange but also serves as a marker of group identity, fostering a sense of belonging among users. However, the informal nature of digital slang may undermine formal language proficiency, posing challenges in academic and professional contexts (Okafor, 2024). Concerns have been raised regarding the potential long-term effects on language education, as the pervasive use of slang might erode conventional grammar and vocabulary. This study investigates the influence of social media slang on the communication practices of Nigerian youth, exploring both its creative benefits and its implications for maintaining standard language proficiency (Akinyemi, 2023).
Statement of the problem
Despite its pervasive use, the impact of social media slang on the communication skills of Nigerian youth remains underexplored. The informal digital language may undermine the mastery of standard language conventions essential for academic and professional success (Ibrahim, 2024). As social media becomes the dominant communication medium, there is a growing concern that youth may increasingly favor slang over traditional language structures. This shift poses potential challenges for educational systems and future career prospects. This study aims to examine how social media slang influences language practices among Nigerian youth and to identify strategies that can balance informal digital expression with formal language proficiency.
Objectives of the study:
Research questions:
Research hypotheses:
Significance of the study (100 words):
This study is significant as it explores the evolving influence of social media slang on youth communication in Nigeria. By understanding digital language trends, educators and policymakers can develop strategies to preserve formal language skills while embracing the creative potential of online expression. The findings will contribute to a balanced approach to language education in the digital era (Chukwu, 2023).
Scope and limitations of the study:
This study is limited to examining the impact of social media slang on youth communication in Nigeria, focusing on digital and interpersonal language practices.
Definitions of terms:
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