A Study on the Effect of Social Media Narratives on Nigerian Morphology: A Case Study of Viral Hashtags
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- NGN 5000
Background of the Study
Social media narratives have emerged as influential drivers of linguistic change, and viral hashtags are at the forefront of this transformation in Nigeria. Viral hashtags not only encapsulate complex socio-political messages in brief textual units but also stimulate morphological creativity among digital users (Eze, 2023). In Nigerian online communities, these hashtags often serve as catalysts for neologism formation, blending elements from indigenous languages, Nigerian Pidgin, and Standard English. This study investigates how viral hashtags impact Nigerian morphology by altering word formation processes such as affixation, compounding, and blending. Digital narratives conveyed through hashtags can lead to morphological innovation that reflects contemporary cultural identities and social movements (Ibrahim, 2025). By analyzing a corpus of trending hashtags on platforms like Twitter and Instagram, this research aims to document recurring morphological patterns and assess whether these innovations signal a temporary trend or a lasting shift in the language. The study also considers how the rapid feedback mechanisms inherent in digital media reinforce or modify these linguistic changes. Ultimately, the research provides insights into the dynamic interplay between digital storytelling and morphological evolution, highlighting the role of social media in reshaping language practices in Nigeria.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the prominence of viral hashtags in shaping online discourse, there is a dearth of empirical research on how these digital narratives affect the morphology of Nigerian English. Existing studies have often focused on lexical innovation without delving into the underlying morphological processes that drive neologism formation (Eze, 2023). This gap limits our understanding of whether viral hashtags lead to systematic morphological changes or merely transient trends. Moreover, inconsistent feedback loops and rapid language evolution in social media create challenges for language standardization and education (Ibrahim, 2025). Without a clear picture of these dynamics, policymakers and educators may be ill-equipped to address potential impacts on literacy and language teaching.
Objectives of the Study:
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To document morphological innovations arising from viral hashtags.
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To analyze the processes of affixation, compounding, and blending in hashtag creation.
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To assess the long-term implications of these changes on Nigerian morphology.
Research Questions:
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What morphological processes are activated by viral hashtags?
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How do these processes reflect social and cultural narratives?
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Are the changes induced by hashtags transient or indicative of lasting language evolution?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it bridges digital media analysis and morphological theory, offering insights into how viral hashtags reshape Nigerian language. The findings will assist linguists, educators, and policymakers in understanding emerging linguistic trends, aiding in the development of adaptive language education strategies and informing cultural preservation efforts (Ibrahim, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study focuses exclusively on viral hashtags on social media platforms and does not extend to offline language use or other digital narratives.
Definitions of Terms:
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Morphology: The study of word formation and structure.
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Viral Hashtags: Trending textual tags that encapsulate complex messages.
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Neologisms: Newly coined words or expressions.
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