Background of the Study
Digital communication platforms have revolutionized language use, giving rise to innovative linguistic practices that diverge from traditional norms. Twitter, in particular, has become a fertile ground for morphosyntactic innovation in Nigerian English and indigenous language contexts. This study examines how digital communication influences changes in word formation, sentence structure, and overall language use, with a focus on Twitter slang. Nigerian users creatively manipulate morphosyntactic elements to express humor, identity, and social commentary in a succinct digital format (Ibrahim, 2023). The rapid evolution of language on social media has led to the emergence of novel linguistic patterns that reflect contemporary cultural and technological influences. Previous research has documented the transformation of language in digital spaces, yet the specific effects on Nigerian morphosyntax remain underexplored (Udo, 2024). By analyzing a corpus of Twitter posts, this study aims to identify recurring morphosyntactic innovations and assess their implications for broader language change. The findings will illuminate how digital communication acts as a catalyst for linguistic creativity, bridging traditional language forms with modern communicative needs (Ibrahim, 2023; Udo, 2024). This research situates itself within the intersection of sociolinguistics and digital communication studies, offering insights into the dynamic evolution of language in a rapidly digitizing society.
Statement of the Problem
While digital communication has undeniably influenced language evolution, the specific morphosyntactic innovations emerging on platforms like Twitter in Nigeria have not been thoroughly investigated. Existing studies primarily focus on lexical changes, overlooking the syntactic and morphological adaptations that occur in digital discourse. This gap in the literature results in an incomplete understanding of how digital platforms are reshaping traditional language structures. The lack of detailed analysis hinders efforts to document and preserve evolving linguistic norms, as well as to understand their broader implications for language education and policy. Addressing this issue is crucial for capturing the full spectrum of language change in the digital era (Udo, 2024; Ibrahim, 2023).
Objectives of the Study
To identify key morphosyntactic innovations in Nigerian Twitter slang.
To analyze the structural changes in language due to digital communication.
To evaluate the broader implications of these innovations for language evolution.
Research Questions
What morphosyntactic changes are evident in Nigerian Twitter slang?
How does digital communication facilitate these linguistic innovations?
What are the implications of these changes for traditional language structures?
Significance of the Study
This study contributes to understanding the impact of digital communication on language evolution by highlighting morphosyntactic innovations in Nigerian Twitter slang. The findings will inform sociolinguistic theory and provide insights for educators and policymakers about emerging linguistic trends. By documenting these changes, the research supports efforts to adapt language education to modern communicative practices, ensuring relevance in a digital era (Ibrahim, 2023).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is confined to examining morphosyntactic innovations in Nigerian Twitter slang and does not cover other social media platforms or offline language practices.
Definitions of Terms
Morphosyntax: The combined study of word formation and sentence structure.
Digital Communication: The exchange of information through electronic platforms.
Twitter Slang: Informal language and expressions commonly used on Twitter.
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Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
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