Background of the study
Social class is a critical factor influencing linguistic behavior, particularly in multilingual societies like Nigeria. Among Lagos professionals, social class often shapes phonetic variations in Nigerian English, impacting pronunciation, intonation, and lexical choices (Okeke, 2023). This study explores how social class influences phonetic output by analyzing speech samples from professionals in different socioeconomic strata. Professionals from higher social classes may exhibit speech patterns closer to standard English norms, while those from lower social classes might display more localized features influenced by indigenous languages and Nigerian Pidgin. These differences have implications for social mobility, professional communication, and language perception in formal contexts. By employing acoustic analysis and sociolinguistic surveys, the study documents phonetic variations and examines the correlation between social class and language use. The findings aim to provide insights that can inform language training, corporate communication strategies, and educational policies designed to bridge linguistic divides (Ibrahim, 2024).
Statement of the problem
Despite the known influence of social class on language, there is limited empirical research on how it affects phonetic variations in Nigerian English among Lagos professionals. Inconsistent phonetic production across different social classes can hinder effective communication and perpetuate social inequalities (Chinwe, 2023). The absence of systematic studies limits the development of targeted training programs to standardize communication in professional settings. This study seeks to fill this gap by investigating the acoustic and sociolinguistic dimensions of phonetic variation as influenced by social class.
Objectives of the study:
Research questions:
Research hypotheses:
Significance of the study (100 words):
This study is significant as it examines the impact of social class on phonetic variations in Nigerian English, providing critical insights for educators and employers in Lagos. The findings will guide language training initiatives aimed at enhancing professional communication (Okeke, 2023).
Scope and limitations of the study:
This study is limited to Lagos professionals and focuses on acoustic and sociolinguistic analyses of Nigerian English.
Definitions of terms:
Background of the Study
Taxation is a critical factor influencing the profitability of businesses, particularly small and medium enterpri...
Background of the study
Economic development and progress in Nigeria are unavoidable for a better and more...
Abstract: This research explores the influence of educational reforms on vocational trainin...
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Environmental conservation is a pressing issue that requires collective a...
Background of the study:
Self-medication is a growing public health concern that often leads to misdiagnosis, drug resistance, and advers...
ABSTRACT
The concern in environmental waste management and toxicity of petroleum derived plastics has led to the search for renewable, no...
Background of the Study
Smoking is a well-established risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), with numerous stud...
Background of the Study
The telecommunications industry in Nigeria plays a critical role in driving economic growth and...
Abstract
Education is widely regarded as the route to economic prosperity, the key to scientific and technological advan...
Background of the Study
In many parts of Nigeria, traditional governance structures play a crucial role in local decision-m...