A Study on the Effect of Digital Communication on Nigerian Morphological Innovation: A Case Study of Instagram Captions
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Background of the Study
Digital communication has rapidly transformed linguistic practices worldwide, and Nigeria is no exception. With the advent of social media platforms like Instagram, users are not only sharing images but also crafting brief yet inventive captions. These Instagram captions have become a fertile ground for morphological innovation, where speakers experiment with word formation processes such as compounding, clipping, blending, and the creation of neologisms. In Nigeria, where multiple languages coexist and digital trends influence everyday communication, Instagram captions offer a unique insight into how morphological structures evolve in real time (Umar, 2023). The brevity imposed by the medium challenges users to convey complex meanings using innovative linguistic shortcuts. Moreover, the digital environment encourages a blending of indigenous linguistic features with global influences, resulting in a dynamic linguistic landscape. Researchers have noted that such digital expressions often lead to the creation of new lexical items that eventually influence standard language practices (Eze, 2024). This study critically examines a corpus of Instagram captions to document emerging morphological patterns, investigate the underlying processes of innovation, and understand the social functions of these new forms. It also explores how these innovations reflect broader cultural trends and identity negotiations among Nigerian youth. Ultimately, the research aims to contribute to our understanding of digital language change and its implications for language evolution in multilingual societies.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the ubiquity of Instagram in Nigeria and its potential as a catalyst for morphological innovation, there is a lack of systematic research on the linguistic changes observable in Instagram captions. Existing studies have largely focused on visual content and engagement metrics, often neglecting the detailed morphological processes at play. This gap in the literature makes it difficult to ascertain how digital constraints and cultural influences drive the creation of new lexical forms. Without a detailed analysis of these morphological innovations, educators, linguists, and policymakers may struggle to develop strategies that acknowledge and harness digital language evolution. Addressing this gap is essential to document the impact of digital communication on language change in Nigeria (Umar, 2023; Eze, 2024).
Objectives of the Study
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To identify and document new morphological forms emerging in Instagram captions.
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To analyze the processes (e.g., compounding, blending) underlying these innovations.
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To assess the cultural and communicative implications of these morphological changes.
Research Questions
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What new morphological patterns are evident in Nigerian Instagram captions?
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How do digital constraints influence word formation in this medium?
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What cultural factors drive morphological innovation in digital communication?
Significance of the Study
This study provides critical insights into how digital communication fosters linguistic innovation in Nigeria. Its findings will inform linguists, educators, and digital media experts about the evolving nature of morphology in social media contexts. By understanding these innovations, stakeholders can better adapt language teaching methods and develop policies that reflect contemporary usage, ultimately enriching our understanding of digital language evolution (Umar, 2023).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is confined to the analysis of Instagram captions produced by Nigerian users and does not extend to other digital media formats or offline language practices.
Definitions of Terms
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Morphological Innovation: The process of creating new word forms or altering existing ones.
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Instagram Captions: Short text descriptions accompanying images on Instagram.
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Digital Communication: The exchange of information through electronic media.
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