Background of the study
Social media platforms have become dynamic spaces where language boundaries blur through the practice of code-switching. In Nigeria, users frequently alternate between Yoruba and Nigerian English to express identity, humor, and cultural nuance. This study examines code-switching in social media interactions, focusing on how bilingual users navigate between these two languages to enhance meaning and audience engagement (Ibrahim, 2023). Code-switching not only serves as a linguistic tool for expressing multifaceted identities but also reflects broader social and cultural trends. In digital environments where brevity and immediacy are prized, the deliberate mixing of Yoruba and Nigerian English can signal group belonging and reinforce cultural solidarity. The research investigates the frequency, context, and motivations behind code-switching practices by analyzing posts, comments, and chat interactions. This analysis aims to reveal the underlying sociolinguistic factors that drive bilingual expression and its impact on digital communication dynamics (Olawale, 2024; Adeniyi, 2025).
Statement of the problem
Despite its prevalence, the phenomenon of code-switching between Yoruba and Nigerian English in social media remains underexplored. The absence of detailed analyses hinders our understanding of how bilingual practices influence communication clarity and cultural representation in digital interactions (Ibrahim, 2023). Without systematic research, it is challenging to ascertain whether code-switching enhances message delivery or leads to potential misunderstandings among diverse audiences. This study addresses the gap by investigating the motivations, patterns, and consequences of code-switching in social media contexts, aiming to clarify its role in shaping contemporary Nigerian digital discourse (Olawale, 2024).
Objectives of the study:
1. To analyze patterns of code-switching between Yoruba and Nigerian English on social media.
2. To assess the communicative functions and effects on audience perception.
3. To evaluate the implications of bilingual practices for cultural identity.
Research questions:
1. What patterns of code-switching are evident in social media interactions?
2. How does code-switching affect communication clarity?
3. What are the cultural implications of bilingual expression online?
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it sheds light on the strategic use of code-switching in digital communication, offering insights into its role in enhancing or complicating message delivery. The findings will benefit linguists, communication experts, and educators by providing a framework for understanding bilingual practices in the digital age (Adeniyi, 2025).
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study focuses on code-switching between Yoruba and Nigerian English in social media interactions in Nigeria, excluding other language pairs or offline contexts.
Definitions of terms:
1. Code-Switching: Alternating between two or more languages in communication.
2. Yoruba: A major Nigerian language with distinct linguistic features.
3. Nigerian English: A localized variety of English shaped by indigenous influences.
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