An evaluation of morpheme boundaries in Nigerian indigenous languages in Oyo
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Background of the study
Morpheme boundaries are critical in understanding how words are segmented and formed within languages. In Oyo, where several Nigerian indigenous languages are spoken, clear demarcation of morpheme boundaries aids in preserving linguistic integrity and facilitates language learning. This study evaluates how indigenous speakers in Oyo delineate morpheme boundaries and the impact of language contact on these processes. Evidence suggests that exposure to formal education and interaction with dominant languages such as English may blur traditional morpheme boundaries, leading to hybridization of morphological elements (Ogunleye, 2023). In indigenous communities, however, traditional practices and oral transmission have long maintained distinct morphemic structures. Recent linguistic research indicates that systematic analysis of morpheme boundaries can reveal underlying cognitive processes in language production and comprehension (Balogun, 2024). The study utilizes both elicitation tasks and naturalistic recordings to examine segmentation strategies and the stability of morpheme boundaries. Additionally, it explores how modern communication and digital media influence these boundaries, potentially altering traditional morphological patterns (Fadeyi, 2025). This evaluation aims to contribute to the theoretical understanding of morphological segmentation in indigenous languages and provide practical insights for language preservation and educational initiatives in Oyo.
Statement of the problem
Although morpheme boundaries are essential for language structure, research on their clarity and variation in Nigerian indigenous languages in Oyo is limited. Preliminary observations indicate that modern influences and bilingual practices may lead to ambiguous segmentation, yet empirical data remain scarce (Ogunleye, 2023). This lack of systematic documentation hinders efforts to develop effective language teaching and preservation strategies. Inconsistent morpheme boundary marking may compromise linguistic integrity and the transmission of traditional knowledge, necessitating a thorough investigation into the underlying factors that influence morphological segmentation (Balogun, 2024). Addressing this gap is crucial for understanding cognitive aspects of language processing and for implementing practical measures in language policy and curriculum development (Fadeyi, 2025).
Objectives of the study:
To assess the clarity of morpheme boundaries in selected indigenous languages in Oyo.
To analyze the influence of bilingualism and modern communication on morpheme segmentation.
To provide recommendations for language teaching and preservation.
Research questions:
How are morpheme boundaries delineated in indigenous languages in Oyo?
What factors contribute to ambiguity in morpheme segmentation?
How does modern influence affect traditional morphological boundaries?
Research Hypotheses:
Indigenous languages in Oyo exhibit distinct morpheme boundaries that are compromised by modern influences.
Bilingual speakers demonstrate less consistent morpheme segmentation.
Digital communication contributes to the blurring of traditional morpheme boundaries.
Significance of the study:
This study is significant as it provides insights into morpheme boundary clarity in Nigerian indigenous languages, aiding in the development of effective educational and preservation strategies. The findings will benefit linguists and language planners by highlighting factors that influence morphological segmentation (Ogunleye, 2023; Fadeyi, 2025).
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study is limited to evaluating morpheme boundaries in selected indigenous languages in Oyo. It focuses solely on morphological segmentation and does not extend to phonological or syntactic dimensions.
Definitions of terms:
Morpheme Boundary: The point at which one morpheme ends and another begins.
Indigenous Languages: Native languages traditionally spoken in a region.
Segmentation: The process of dividing words into their constituent morphemes.
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