Background of the Study
Urbanization has had a profound effect on language evolution in Nigeria, influencing morphological structures and lexical choices. This study examines the impact of urbanization on Nigerian morphology by comparing traditional lexicons with those emerging in modern urban contexts. Traditional vocabulary, rich in indigenous expressions and cultural references, often contrasts sharply with the modern lexicon influenced by globalization, technology, and intercultural contact (Fadeke, 2023). Urban environments foster rapid language change, resulting in the creation of new word forms, blends, and borrowings that reflect contemporary lifestyles and communication needs. The research explores how these morphological adaptations affect language use in everyday contexts, media, and education (Segun, 2024). By analyzing corpora from rural and urban settings, the study aims to identify trends in morphological innovation and examine the social and cultural forces driving these changes. This comparative analysis contributes to our understanding of how urbanization transforms language structure and supports the development of dynamic linguistic models that capture the fluidity of modern Nigerian speech (Temitope, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Despite noticeable differences between traditional and modern lexicons in Nigeria, there is limited research on how urbanization drives morphological changes. The rapid emergence of new word forms in urban areas may erode traditional language features and complicate communication across different social groups (Fadeke, 2023). This disparity creates challenges in language teaching, preservation, and policy formulation. Current studies have not adequately compared the morphological innovations in urban settings with established traditional forms, leading to an incomplete understanding of the processes of language change (Segun, 2024). This study seeks to fill this gap by systematically analyzing the effects of urbanization on Nigerian morphology and proposing strategies for preserving linguistic heritage while embracing innovation (Temitope, 2025).
Objectives of the Study:
To compare traditional and modern lexicons in Nigerian morphology.
To identify morphological innovations influenced by urbanization.
To assess the sociocultural impact of these lexical changes.
Research Questions:
How do traditional and modern Nigerian lexicons differ morphologically?
What new morphological forms have emerged due to urbanization?
What are the cultural implications of these morphological changes?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it examines the transformative impact of urbanization on Nigerian morphology. By comparing traditional and modern lexicons, it offers insights into language change processes and informs educational and language preservation strategies. The findings will be valuable for linguists, policymakers, and educators seeking to balance heritage with modern linguistic innovations (Temitope, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study is limited to comparing morphological features in traditional and modern Nigerian lexicons and does not cover other aspects of language change.
Definitions of Terms:
Morphology: The study of the structure and formation of words.
Lexicon: The vocabulary of a language.
Urbanization: The process by which rural areas develop into urban centers, influencing cultural and linguistic practices.
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