A Study on the Effect of Digital Communication on Morphological Adaptation in Nigerian English
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Background of the Study
Digital communication has revolutionized language use, particularly among younger speakers in Nigeria, where Nigerian English is undergoing rapid morphological adaptation. This study explores how digital platforms such as social media, texting, and online forums influence the morphological structures of Nigerian English. The dynamic nature of online interactions encourages the creation of new word forms, abbreviations, and morphological innovations that diverge from traditional patterns (Adeyemi, 2023). These adaptations are not only a response to technological constraints but also reflect cultural shifts and the influence of global digital trends. The study examines how digital communication affects morphological processes such as affixation, compounding, and lexical borrowing, thereby altering the conventional grammar of Nigerian English (Folarin, 2024). Furthermore, it investigates whether these changes enhance communication efficiency or lead to ambiguity and misunderstanding. By analyzing corpora from various digital sources, this research provides a comprehensive view of morphological evolution in Nigerian English. It also considers the implications for language teaching and standardization as digital norms increasingly influence formal language usage (Jibola, 2025). The integration of digital linguistics with traditional morphological analysis offers new perspectives on language change in the digital age, emphasizing the need for updated theoretical models.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the transformative impact of digital communication on language, there is limited understanding of how it drives morphological adaptation in Nigerian English. Traditional language structures are being challenged by the rapid evolution of digital shorthand, neologisms, and informal morphological constructions (Adeyemi, 2023). This transformation raises concerns about potential loss of grammatical integrity and clarity in formal communication. Additionally, the absence of systematic studies on the relationship between digital communication and morphological change hinders the development of pedagogical strategies to address these innovations (Folarin, 2024). The problem is compounded by the inconsistent usage of digital forms across different demographics, which may lead to divergent language norms. This study aims to bridge the gap by analyzing morphological adaptations influenced by digital media and assessing their long-term implications for Nigerian English.
Objectives of the Study:
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To identify morphological changes in Nigerian English prompted by digital communication.
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To evaluate the impact of digital platforms on traditional morphological structures.
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To propose strategies for incorporating digital language trends into formal language education.
Research Questions:
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What morphological adaptations are emerging in Nigerian English due to digital communication?
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How do digital platforms influence the formation of new word forms?
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What strategies can be developed to integrate digital morphological trends into educational curricula?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it explores the intersection of digital communication and morphological adaptation in Nigerian English. The research provides insights into how technology is reshaping language use and informs educators, linguists, and policymakers on emerging linguistic trends. By analyzing digital influences on morphology, the findings contribute to a better understanding of language evolution in the digital era and support the development of curricula that address contemporary language use (Jibola, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This research is limited to analyzing morphological adaptations in Nigerian English as influenced by digital communication. It focuses exclusively on digital texts from selected online platforms and does not cover other language varieties or offline communication.
Definitions of Terms:
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Digital Communication: The exchange of information through electronic platforms such as social media, messaging apps, and email.
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Morphological Adaptation: Changes in the structure and formation of words in a language.
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Nigerian English: The variety of English spoken in Nigeria, characterized by unique lexical and grammatical features.
