A Comparative Analysis of Morphological Derivation in Nigerian Urban Slang: A Focus on Neologisms in Port Harcourt
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Background of the Study
Urban slang in Nigeria is a dynamic linguistic phenomenon that continuously evolves to reflect cultural and societal shifts. In Port Harcourt, a vibrant urban center, the emergence of neologisms—newly coined words or expressions—is particularly evident. This study investigates morphological derivation in Nigerian urban slang, focusing on how new lexical items are formed and integrated into everyday communication. Neologisms in urban slang are often derived through processes such as compounding, blending, and affixation, reflecting the creative linguistic practices of the youth (Obi, 2023). The rapid evolution of language in urban environments is influenced by diverse factors, including globalization, digital communication, and cultural exchange. Previous research has highlighted that morphological innovation in urban slang not only enriches the language but also serves as a marker of identity and social belonging (Adeniran, 2024). By analyzing linguistic data from social interactions, online forums, and media sources in Port Harcourt, this study aims to document the processes of morphological derivation and assess their impact on language change. The findings are expected to contribute to broader discussions on sociolinguistics and the role of urban slang in reflecting contemporary Nigerian culture (Obi, 2023; Adeniran, 2024).
Statement of the Problem
There is a dearth of systematic research on the morphological derivation processes that drive neologism formation in Nigerian urban slang, particularly in Port Harcourt. While urban slang is recognized as a dynamic linguistic resource, the specific mechanisms by which new words are created and normalized remain underexplored. This gap limits our understanding of how morphological innovation contributes to language change and the expression of urban identity. Without detailed analysis, the social and linguistic significance of these neologisms may be overlooked, thereby impeding efforts to document and preserve the evolving linguistic landscape of urban Nigeria (Obi, 2023; Adeniran, 2024).
Objectives of the Study
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To document morphological derivation processes in Port Harcourt urban slang.
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To analyze the formation of neologisms and their integration into daily language.
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To evaluate the social significance of morphological innovation in urban identity.
Research Questions
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What morphological processes underpin the formation of neologisms in urban slang?
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How are these new lexical items integrated into everyday communication?
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What social functions do these neologisms serve?
Significance of the Study
This study offers valuable insights into the creative linguistic processes shaping Nigerian urban slang. The findings will benefit sociolinguists, cultural studies scholars, and educators by highlighting the role of morphological derivation in language evolution and identity formation. By focusing on Port Harcourt, the research provides a detailed case study of urban linguistic innovation and its broader cultural implications (Adeniran, 2024).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is limited to the analysis of morphological derivation in urban slang neologisms from Port Harcourt. It does not cover slang from other regions or other linguistic phenomena.
Definitions of Terms
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Morphological Derivation: The process of creating new words by adding affixes or combining elements.
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Neologisms: Newly coined words or expressions.
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Urban Slang: Informal language used in metropolitan contexts.
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