An examination of the role of syntax in the interpretation of Nigerian Pidgin jokes
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Background of the study
Nigerian Pidgin, with its vibrant and flexible syntactic structures, plays a pivotal role in humor and social commentary. This study examines how syntax contributes to the effectiveness and interpretation of jokes in Nigerian Pidgin. The playful manipulation of word order, clause structure, and intonation often underpins the humor embedded in these jokes, creating layered meanings appreciated by native speakers (Eze, 2023). Recent research emphasizes that such syntactic arrangements are carefully crafted to maximize comedic impact and cultural resonance (Okoro, 2024). In Nigerian Pidgin jokes, deliberate variations in syntax create ambiguity and surprise, essential ingredients for eliciting laughter and engaging audiences. This study will analyze a corpus of jokes from media sources and live performances to identify common syntactic patterns and assess their effects on humor interpretation. It further examines how these patterns vary across different social contexts, influenced by cultural nuances and speaker intent (Adebayo, 2025).
Statement of the problem
Despite the acknowledged role of syntax in humor, empirical research on its specific contribution to Nigerian Pidgin jokes remains limited. Most studies have focused on semantic or phonetic features, leaving a gap in understanding how syntactic choices shape comedic interpretation (Chinedu, 2023). This gap hampers a holistic understanding of the mechanisms that generate humor in Nigerian Pidgin. The present study seeks to systematically document these syntactic strategies to provide deeper insights into joke construction and reception.
Objectives of the study
- To analyze common syntactic structures in Nigerian Pidgin jokes.
- To assess how these syntactic patterns influence humor and audience interpretation.
- To explore the interplay between syntax and cultural context in joke delivery.
Research questions - What syntactic patterns are prevalent in Nigerian Pidgin jokes?
- How does syntax affect the humor and interpretation of these jokes?
- In what ways does cultural context shape syntactic choices in joke construction?
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it illuminates the underexplored relationship between syntax and humor in Nigerian Pidgin. The findings will enrich our understanding of language play and cultural expression, offering valuable insights for linguists, humor theorists, and media practitioners. By linking syntactic analysis with joke interpretation, the research contributes to broader discussions on communication and social identity (Ijeoma, 2024).
Scope and limitations of the study
This study is limited to examining the role of syntax in the construction and interpretation of Nigerian Pidgin jokes. It does not extend to phonetic or semantic elements of humor.
Definitions of terms
- Syntax: The arrangement of words and phrases to form well-constructed sentences.
- Nigerian Pidgin: A creole language widely used in Nigeria with simplified grammar and vocabulary.
- Humor: The quality of being amusing, often achieved through creative language use.
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