The Impact of Digital Platforms on Nigerian Morphosyntax: A Comparative Analysis of SMS and Social Media Language
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Background of the Study
Digital platforms have revolutionized communication in Nigeria, leading to significant shifts in morphosyntactic structures. SMS language and social media discourse represent two distinct forms of digital communication that influence the morphology and syntax of Nigerian English. SMS language is characterized by brevity, abbreviations, and simplified grammatical constructions, while social media platforms foster a more diverse range of linguistic innovations, including creative punctuation and code-mixing (Jibola, 2023). This study compares the morphosyntactic features of these two modes, investigating how digital constraints and audience expectations shape language use. The research examines how new word forms, syntactic simplifications, and morphological adaptations emerge in these contexts. Moreover, the study explores the implications of these changes for language teaching, literacy, and the preservation of standard language norms. By utilizing corpus analysis and digital ethnography, this research aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the evolving morphosyntax in Nigerian digital communication, highlighting both the convergence and divergence between SMS and social media language (Olayinka, 2024).
Statement of the Problem
While digital communication has transformed Nigerian morphosyntax, there is limited comparative research examining the differences between SMS language and social media discourse. The rapid evolution of digital language forms poses challenges for educators and language planners as traditional morphosyntactic norms are increasingly undermined (Jibola, 2023). Inconsistencies between the simplified structures of SMS and the more complex constructions in social media may lead to confusion among language users and affect literacy outcomes (Olayinka, 2024). Without a systematic analysis, it is difficult to determine the long-term implications of these digital influences on Nigerian English. This study seeks to fill this gap by comparing the morphosyntactic adaptations across these digital platforms.
Objectives of the Study:
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To analyze the morphosyntactic features of SMS language and social media discourse.
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To compare the digital influences on language structure in both media.
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To assess the implications of these changes for language education and literacy.
Research Questions:
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What are the key morphosyntactic differences between SMS and social media language?
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How do digital platforms influence morphological adaptations?
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What are the potential impacts on standard language usage?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it provides a comparative analysis of morphosyntactic changes in Nigerian digital communication. By examining SMS language alongside social media discourse, the research offers valuable insights into how digital platforms reshape language structure. The findings will inform educators, linguists, and policymakers about the evolving nature of language in the digital age, supporting strategies to balance innovation with standard language preservation (Olayinka, 2024).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study is limited to analyzing morphosyntactic features in SMS messages and social media posts from Nigerian users. It does not extend to other forms of digital communication or offline language practices.
Definitions of Terms:
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Morphosyntax: The study of the structure and formation of words and sentences.
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SMS Language: Informal language used in text messaging, characterized by abbreviations and simplified grammar.
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Social Media Discourse: The language used in online platforms that supports diverse linguistic innovations.
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