Background of the Study
Bilingual conversations, particularly between Yoruba and English, are a defining characteristic of urban linguistic practices in Lagos. These interactions provide a unique lens through which to examine the interplay between indigenous and global languages. The discourse structure in bilingual conversations is influenced by factors such as code-switching, lexical borrowing, and syntactic adaptation, which reflect the dynamic nature of Lagos’ sociolinguistic environment (Adebayo, 2023). Researchers have noted that these interactions are not merely linguistic exchanges but are imbued with cultural significance, negotiating identity, social status, and cultural hybridity (Ogunleye, 2024). The fluid integration of Yoruba and English in daily conversation exemplifies how speakers navigate and construct meaning in a multicultural context. This study evaluates the discourse structure in bilingual conversations by analyzing the patterns of language use, the role of discourse markers, and the overall coherence of interactions. The aim is to understand how bilingualism in Lagos influences communication practices, and to what extent these practices reflect broader cultural and societal trends (Adebayo, 2023).
Statement of the Problem
Although bilingual communication is prevalent in Lagos, there is a lack of in-depth analysis regarding the discourse structure in Yoruba–English conversations. The complexity arising from frequent language switching and mixed linguistic features presents challenges in understanding how meaning is co-constructed among speakers (Ogunleye, 2024). This gap is compounded by the evolving nature of bilingual practices in a rapidly globalizing urban environment, where traditional linguistic norms and modern influences collide. Without a comprehensive evaluation of these discourse structures, the implications for cultural identity and effective communication may remain underexplored. This study addresses these issues by investigating the structural components of bilingual discourse and their impact on clarity and coherence.
Objectives of the Study
To analyze the structural components of bilingual Yoruba–English conversations.
To assess the impact of code-switching and lexical borrowing on discourse coherence.
To explore the cultural implications of bilingual communication in Lagos.
Research Questions
What are the dominant structural features in bilingual Yoruba–English conversations?
How does code-switching affect the overall coherence of discourse?
What cultural factors influence bilingual communication practices in Lagos?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it offers a critical evaluation of bilingual discourse structures in Lagos, highlighting the intricate interplay between Yoruba and English in everyday communication. The insights derived will contribute to sociolinguistic theory and inform educational practices in multilingual settings. The research supports efforts to appreciate and preserve the dynamic nature of urban bilingualism while providing recommendations for enhancing communication clarity in multicultural environments (Adebayo, 2023; Ogunleye, 2024).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is limited to the evaluation of discourse structures in bilingual Yoruba–English conversations in Lagos and does not extend to other language combinations or regions.
Definitions of Terms
Bilingualism: The ability to use two languages proficiently.
Discourse Structure: The framework that organizes spoken or written communication.
Code-Switching: The practice of alternating between two or more languages during communication.
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