Background of the Study
Social media has revolutionized communication, particularly through the rise of influencers who shape public opinion via platforms such as Instagram. Nigerian social media influencers are at the forefront of this transformation, using pragmatic markers—such as discourse particles, emotive cues, and contextual hints—to engage their followers. This study investigates the pragmatic features embedded in Instagram posts, focusing on how these markers enhance relatability, authenticity, and persuasive appeal. Influencers craft their online persona by strategically employing language that resonates with their audience, blending informal communication with cultural references (Adetola, 2023). Recent research suggests that pragmatic markers in digital content are instrumental in building trust and fostering interactive communities (Bassey, 2024). Moreover, the integration of local linguistic nuances into influencer content highlights a complex interplay between global social media trends and indigenous communication styles. This investigation examines how Nigerian influencers navigate these dynamics to sustain engagement and drive consumer behavior. By analyzing a range of Instagram posts, the study aims to uncover the systematic use of pragmatic markers and assess their role in digital persuasion (Adetola, 2023; Bassey, 2024). The findings will offer insights into the evolving practices of digital rhetoric in a culturally diverse landscape.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the growing influence of social media, research on the pragmatic aspects of influencer communication in Nigeria remains scant. Existing studies predominantly address visual and stylistic elements, while the subtle linguistic markers that facilitate audience engagement have received limited attention. This gap is particularly evident in the context of Instagram, where influencers rely on pragmatic cues to create authenticity and establish rapport with followers. The lack of systematic analysis of these markers restricts our understanding of their role in digital persuasion and community building. Addressing this gap is crucial to comprehensively evaluate the impact of language in shaping online influence and marketing strategies (Bassey, 2024; Adetola, 2023).
Objectives of the Study
To identify the pragmatic markers used by Nigerian social media influencers on Instagram.
To assess the impact of these markers on audience engagement and perception.
To explore the relationship between pragmatic marker usage and digital persuasion.
Research Questions
What pragmatic markers are most frequently used in influencer content?
How do these markers affect audience engagement?
What is the relationship between pragmatic marker usage and digital persuasive strategies?
Significance of the Study
This study offers valuable insights into the role of language in digital marketing and online influence. By examining pragmatic markers in influencer content, the research contributes to our understanding of digital rhetoric and its impact on consumer behavior. The findings will inform social media strategies and academic discussions on digital communication, offering practical recommendations for enhancing online engagement (Adetola, 2023).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This research is limited to the analysis of pragmatic markers in Instagram posts by Nigerian social media influencers and does not consider other social media platforms or non-digital communications.
Definitions of Terms
Pragmatic Markers: Linguistic elements that indicate speaker attitude or structure discourse.
Social Media Influencer: An individual who has established credibility and a following on social media platforms.
Digital Persuasion: The use of online communication strategies to influence audience behavior.
Background of the Study
Supply chain financing involves providing financial solutions that optimize cash flow within the...
EXCERPT FROM THE STUDY
In the conclusion the study is beyond doubt and abundantly clear that laboratory activities in schools is a necess...
Background of the Study
Public transport accessibility for persons with disabilities is a critical issue in Calabar South,...
Background of the Study :
Over recent years, online education has become a critical component of the modern educational lan...
Background of the Study
Voter inducement, commonly referred to as vote-buying, remains a major challeng...
ABSTRACT.
In our everyday lives, we interact with agents like personal computers, search engines, cars, etc., and reveal many of our pers...
ABSTRACT
This study was carried out on sourcing decision and its effects on material availability in 7up bottling compan...
Background of the study
Formal education plays a pivotal role in shaping language proficiency, particularly the phonetic a...
Background of the Study
Digital recruitment processes have revolutionized talent acquisition in the banking sector by leveraging technolo...
ABSTRACT
In this study, Remote Sensing (RS), Land-sat 8 digital data, and digital elevation models (DEMs) from the Advan...