An investigation of the adaptation of foreign phonological patterns in Nigerian English among urban youths
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Background of the study
Urban youths in Nigeria are increasingly exposed to a myriad of linguistic influences, notably foreign phonological patterns brought about by globalization and media proliferation. Nigerian English, as a dynamic variety, continuously adapts to these external influences, creating a unique linguistic phenomenon. The adaptation process reflects a complex interaction between local speech norms and imported phonetic traits, which urban youths incorporate into everyday communication (Okafor, 2023). This study examines how urban youths negotiate the integration of foreign phonological features, such as intonation and vowel shifts, into Nigerian English. The exposure to diverse dialects through social media, international travel, and cultural exchanges has accelerated the convergence of these patterns, resulting in a hybridized speech form (Ibrahim, 2024). Previous studies have identified trends of phonological borrowing that suggest both resistance and acceptance among speakers (Eze, 2025). This research considers theoretical frameworks from sociolinguistics and phonetics, highlighting the role of identity, media influence, and peer group dynamics in phonological adaptation. It underscores the importance of understanding how globalized speech patterns can transform local language norms, thus contributing to broader debates on language change in multilingual societies.
Statement of the problem
There is a noticeable gap in empirical studies regarding the extent to which foreign phonological patterns influence Nigerian English among urban youths. Anecdotal evidence and preliminary studies indicate a trend towards phonological borrowing, yet systematic data remain limited (Okafor, 2023). The fluidity of language in urban settings and the pervasive impact of global media complicate the assessment of phonological adaptation. This lack of clarity poses challenges for linguists seeking to understand the implications of such changes on language identity and communication efficacy (Ibrahim, 2024). Additionally, the role of sociocultural factors in either facilitating or resisting these foreign influences is underexplored. Addressing these gaps is critical for informing language policy and pedagogical approaches, ensuring that language evolution is both acknowledged and guided in a way that respects linguistic heritage while embracing innovation (Eze, 2025).
Objectives of the study:
- To explore the extent of foreign phonological pattern adaptation in Nigerian English among urban youths.
- To identify the factors influencing the incorporation of foreign phonetic traits.
- To evaluate the implications of such adaptations on language identity and communication.
Research questions:
- What foreign phonological features are adopted by urban youths in Nigerian English?
- How do social and media influences shape phonological adaptation in this context?
- What are the perceived impacts of these adaptations on linguistic identity?
Research Hypotheses:
- Urban Nigerian youths significantly adopt foreign phonological features in their speech.
- Exposure to global media positively correlates with the extent of phonological adaptation.
- The incorporation of foreign phonetic traits impacts the perceived identity of Nigerian English.
Significance of the study:
This study provides crucial insights into the phonological evolution of Nigerian English as influenced by globalization. It will benefit linguists, educators, and policymakers by clarifying the mechanisms behind phonological adaptation and its effects on language identity. The findings are anticipated to guide language teaching methods and inform sociolinguistic policies that accommodate evolving speech patterns (Ajayi, 2024; Okeke, 2025).
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study is limited to the adaptation of foreign phonological patterns in Nigerian English among urban youths. It focuses on linguistic influences in urban environments and does not extend to rural speech communities or other sociolinguistic variables outside urban media exposure.
Definitions of terms:
- Nigerian English: A localized variety of English spoken in Nigeria, characterized by unique phonological and lexical features.
- Phonological Adaptation: The process of integrating new sound patterns into an existing language system.
- Urban Youths: Young individuals residing in metropolitan areas who are exposed to diverse linguistic influences.
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