An examination of the role of syntax in the interpretation of Nigerian Pidgin jokes
- Project Research
- 1-5 Chapters
- Abstract : Available
- Table of Content: Available
- Reference Style:
- Recommended for :
- NGN 5000
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.
Related Project Materials
An Examination of Public Relations Strategies in Promoting Peaceful Elections in Rural Communities: A Case Study of Damaturu LGA, Yobe State
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
The conduct of peaceful elections is integ...
ASSESSMENT OF THE ROLE OF TEACHERS IN CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN NIGERIA
Abstract
Effective classroom management consists of teacher behaviour that produces high level of the involvement of st...
Investigating Ethical Reporting of Human Rights Violations in Katsina Local Government Area, Katsina State
Background of the Study
Human rights violations are a pressing global concern, and their ethical reporting plays a cruci...
PROMOTING INTERDISCIPLINARY APPROACHES IN TECHNICAL EDUCATION
Abstract: This study promotes interdisciplinary approaches in technical education in Nigeri...
IMPACT OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT) ON STUDENTS MANAGEMENT IN TERTIARY INSTITUTION
Background to the Study
It is observed that more and more organizations in Nigeria are shifting towards ICT driven syste...
An assessment of expanding branch accessibility on reaching underserved communities in banking: a case study of Union Bank of Nigeria
Background of the Study
Expanding branch accessibility is a critical strategy for promoting financial inclusion, particula...
AN EVALUATION OF THE IMPACT OF FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT ON THE COMPREHENSIVE LEARNING OF SCHOOL CHILDREN
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
A learning-friendly environment (LFE) accepts, nurtures, and educates all...
Cost-Benefit Analysis as a Tool for Decision-Making in Keffi LGA
Background of the Study
Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) is a systematic approach to evalua...
An investigation of customer care service quality on bank reputation: a case study of Zenith Bank
Background of the Study
Customer care service quality is a critical determinant of bank reputation in today’s hig...
An Appraisal of Digital Language Innovation in Nigerian Online Forums: A Case Study of Twitter Memes
Background of the Study
Digital language innovation is a hallmark of online forums, where creative expressions emerge rapi...
