An examination of vowel reduction phenomena in Nigerian Pidgin phonology in Abuja
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- NGN 5000
Background of the study
Vowel reduction, characterized by the shortening and centralization of vowel sounds, is a common phonological process in many languages, including Nigerian Pidgin. In Abuja, Nigerian Pidgin is used extensively in informal settings, and speakers often exhibit reduced vowel forms in rapid or casual speech (Afolabi, 2023). This study examines vowel reduction phenomena by analyzing acoustic parameters such as vowel duration, formant frequencies, and intensity levels. The investigation seeks to determine how vowel reduction contributes to the distinctiveness of Nigerian Pidgin phonology and affects intelligibility among speakers. Factors such as speech rate, social context, and language contact are considered as potential influences on vowel reduction patterns (Ibrahim, 2024). The research will employ field recordings from diverse urban settings in Abuja to capture naturalistic speech and analyze the variability of vowel production. The findings will provide insights into the nature of vowel reduction and its implications for automated speech recognition, language teaching, and the broader understanding of creole phonetics in Nigeria (Chinwe, 2025).
Statement of the problem
Despite the prevalence of vowel reduction in Nigerian Pidgin, systematic acoustic studies in Abuja are limited. This gap hinders the development of precise models for understanding phonetic variability and may affect the accuracy of speech recognition systems (Afolabi, 2023). Inconsistent vowel reduction can also lead to miscommunication in informal contexts, impacting social interactions and language learning. The study aims to address these issues by providing a comprehensive analysis of vowel reduction phenomena in Nigerian Pidgin, thereby supporting both theoretical and practical advancements in phonetic research.
Objectives of the study:
- To document vowel reduction patterns in Nigerian Pidgin.
- To analyze acoustic characteristics of reduced vowels.
- To propose recommendations for speech technology and language teaching.
Research questions:
- What are the common patterns of vowel reduction in Nigerian Pidgin?
- How do acoustic measures differ between reduced and non-reduced vowels?
- What factors influence the degree of vowel reduction?
Research hypotheses:
- Vowel reduction is a systematic feature in Nigerian Pidgin.
- Acoustic analysis will reveal consistent patterns in vowel reduction.
- Social factors significantly influence vowel reduction intensity.
Significance of the study (100 words):
This study is significant as it examines vowel reduction in Nigerian Pidgin in Abuja, providing essential data to improve speech recognition systems and language instruction. The findings will enhance our understanding of creole phonetics and support technological and educational initiatives (Ibrahim, 2024).
Scope and limitations of the study:
This study is limited to Nigerian Pidgin speakers in Abuja and focuses on acoustic analysis of vowel reduction in informal speech.
Definitions of terms:
- Vowel Reduction: The process of producing vowels with less distinct articulation.
- Nigerian Pidgin: An English-based creole spoken in Nigeria.
- Acoustic Analysis: The measurement and evaluation of sound properties.
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