An Evaluation of Consonant Cluster Reduction in Nigerian Pidgin: A Case Study of Urban Youth Linguistic Practices
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Background of the study
Nigerian Pidgin is a dynamic linguistic variety, especially among urban youth, where rapid speech and informal communication are prevalent. A notable phonological process in this context is consonant cluster reduction, whereby speakers simplify sequences of adjacent consonants to ease pronunciation and expedite conversation. This phenomenon is particularly observable in urban settings, where fast-paced digital and verbal interactions drive language change (Okafor, 2023). Consonant cluster reduction may affect the clarity and stylistic expression of Nigerian Pidgin, influencing both identity markers and communication efficiency. The study investigates how urban youth employ consonant cluster reduction in everyday speech and online communications. Through analyses of audio recordings and social media interactions, the research examines whether these phonetic modifications facilitate smoother communication or introduce ambiguities. The investigation not only contributes to the understanding of phonological evolution in Nigerian Pidgin but also situates this process within broader sociolinguistic trends in urban environments (Akinola, 2024; Nwosu, 2025).
Statement of the problem
Despite its prominence in informal speech, consonant cluster reduction in Nigerian Pidgin remains underexplored regarding its impact on communication clarity among urban youth. Simplifying consonant clusters may inadvertently lead to reduced intelligibility, potentially causing miscommunication in fast-paced interactions (Okafor, 2023). The lack of systematic analysis on this process creates a gap in understanding its effects on language evolution and listener comprehension. This study addresses this gap by investigating the extent and consequences of consonant cluster reduction in everyday communication among urban youth, aiming to balance the natural linguistic innovation with effective communication practices (Akinola, 2024).
Objectives of the study:
1. To document consonant cluster reduction occurrences in Nigerian Pidgin among urban youth.
2. To assess its impact on speech clarity and communication efficiency.
3. To propose guidelines for balancing phonological simplification with intelligibility.
Research questions:
1. How prevalent is consonant cluster reduction in Nigerian Pidgin among urban youth?
2. What is its impact on listener comprehension?
3. How can a balance between reduction and clarity be achieved?
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it explores how consonant cluster reduction shapes the phonological landscape of Nigerian Pidgin among urban youth. The findings will inform linguists and educators on the balance between linguistic innovation and clarity in communication, contributing to more effective language practices in informal and digital contexts (Nwosu, 2025).
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study is limited to analyzing consonant cluster reduction in Nigerian Pidgin as used by urban youth in Nigeria, excluding other dialects or formal registers.
Definitions of terms:
1. Consonant Cluster Reduction: The simplification of adjacent consonants in a word.
2. Nigerian Pidgin: An English-based creole widely used in Nigeria.
3. Urban Youth Linguistic Practices: Informal language usage among young people in urban settings.
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