A Study on the Effect of Linguistic Borrowing on Nigerian Phonetics: A Case Study of Loanwords in Nigerian English
- Project Research
- 1-5 Chapters
- Abstract : Available
- Table of Content: Available
- Reference Style:
- Recommended for :
- NGN 5000
Background of the Study
Nigerian English, as a product of cultural and linguistic diversity, incorporates numerous loanwords from indigenous languages, Arabic, and colonial influences. This study investigates how linguistic borrowing affects the phonetics of Nigerian English, focusing on the pronunciation, intonation, and stress patterns of loanwords (Afolabi, 2023). Loanwords often undergo phonetic adaptation to conform to the phonological system of Nigerian English, resulting in variations that reflect local accents and pronunciation norms. The research examines a corpus of loanwords used in everyday speech and media, analyzing the systematic changes in vowel quality, consonantal clusters, and rhythmic patterns. It also considers the role of language contact and cultural exchange in driving these adaptations (Ibrahim, 2025). By comparing borrowed terms with their original forms, the study seeks to identify patterns of phonetic convergence and divergence. The findings will contribute to understanding the dynamic interplay between language contact and phonetic change in a multilingual society, highlighting the evolving nature of Nigerian English (Chinwe, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Despite the prevalence of loanwords in Nigerian English, there is limited research on the phonetic adaptations that these borrowed terms undergo. The lack of systematic analysis impedes our understanding of how linguistic borrowing influences pronunciation and may contribute to communication challenges or misperceptions (Afolabi, 2023). Additionally, variations in the phonetic realization of loanwords across different regions and social groups remain underexplored. This gap limits insights into the broader impact of language contact on phonetic evolution in Nigerian English (Ibrahim, 2025). This study seeks to address these issues by providing a detailed examination of the phonetic changes in loanwords, thereby contributing to linguistic theory and practical language education (Chinwe, 2025).
Objectives of the Study:
-
To document phonetic variations in loanwords used in Nigerian English.
-
To analyze the processes of phonetic adaptation in borrowed terms.
-
To assess the implications of these adaptations for communication and language teaching.
Research Questions:
-
How are loanwords phonologically adapted in Nigerian English?
-
What are the common phonetic changes observed in these loanwords?
-
How do these adaptations affect clarity and communication?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it examines the effect of linguistic borrowing on the phonetics of Nigerian English, offering insights into language contact phenomena. The findings will inform educators, linguists, and communication specialists about how loanwords are adapted, helping to refine pronunciation models and language teaching methodologies (Chinwe, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study focuses exclusively on loanwords in Nigerian English and does not cover other aspects of language contact or phonetic influences from different sources.
Definitions of Terms:
-
Linguistic Borrowing: The adoption of words from one language into another.
-
Phonetic Adaptation: The process by which borrowed words are modified to fit the phonological system of a language.
-
Loanwords: Words borrowed from one language and incorporated into another.
Related Project Materials
ANTIMALARIAL SUSCEPTIBILITY AND DRUG RESISTANCE CHARACTERIZATION STUDIES OF PLASMODIUM SPECIES ISOLATES FROM PATIENTS IN NIGERIA
ABSTRACT
About half of Nigerian population experience at least one episode of malaria per year, resulting in high morbidity and mortality...
An evaluation of ICT-driven solutions in rural agricultural banking operations: a case study of Stanbic IBTC Bank Nigeria
Background of the Study
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become a transformative force in modern banking, particularly...
DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION OF A COMPUTER SOFTWARE FOR THE SOLUTION OF LINEAR EQUATION
OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY
The main concern of this project work is to study the methods and processes for...
The effect of modern agricultural activities on ancient settlement sites in Ogoja Local Government Area, Cross River State
Background of the Study
Modern agricultural activities in Ogoja have transformed the rural landscape, often encroaching up...
An investigation of the impact of social media fraud on cybercrime in Aniocha South Local Government Area, Delta State
Background of the Study
The rapid evolution of digital technologies has transformed communication and commerce, yet it has...
THE EFFECT OF COMPUTERIZATION ON SERVICE DELIVERY
ABSTRACT
The study was about the effect of computerization on service delivery in Airtel Uganda.
The study was...
An Investigation of the Psychological Effects of Cyberbullying on Teenagers: A Case Study of Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Calabar, Cross River State
Background of the Study
Cyberbullying has become a prevalent issue in the digital age, with teenagers b...
An appraisal of the effectiveness of nurse-led counseling on reducing salt intake in hypertensive patients in Ogun State
Background of the Study
Hypertension is a prevalent condition globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria, wh...
AN ASSESSMENT OF PUBIC PERCEPTION OF HEALTH-RELATED RADIO PROGRAMMES IN NIGERIA
Background Of The Study
One of humanity's recurring concerns is the predominance of health-related...
The influence of classroom design on students' learning experience in primary schools in Kaltungo LGA, Gombe State
Background of the study
Classroom design is increasingly recognized as a critical element that shapes the learning experie...
