An Investigation of Semantic Innovations in Nigerian Social Media Trends: A Study of Meme Culture
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Background of the Study
Social media has become a fertile ground for linguistic creativity in Nigeria, particularly through the proliferation of memes. Memes, as a form of digital humor, encapsulate complex cultural references and semantic innovations in concise, often humorous formats (Ibrahim, 2023). This study investigates how memes serve as vehicles for semantic change by repurposing traditional expressions and inventing new meanings. Nigerian meme culture reflects the dynamic interplay between contemporary issues, pop culture, and indigenous linguistic practices. Memes often employ code-switching, puns, and intertextual references to convey layered meanings that resonate with diverse audiences. By analyzing a corpus of memes circulating on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, the research explores the mechanisms behind semantic innovation, examining how meanings evolve rapidly in digital discourse (Olu, 2024). This study also considers the social and cultural impact of these innovations, including their role in shaping public opinion and fostering a sense of community among young Nigerians (Adeleke, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
While memes have become a ubiquitous part of Nigerian social media, there is limited academic research on their role in driving semantic innovations. The rapid evolution of meme language poses challenges in capturing the nuances of meaning and the cultural factors that influence it (Ibrahim, 2023). The transient nature of memes often results in a lack of systematic documentation, leading to gaps in our understanding of how digital discourse is reshaping language. This study seeks to address these issues by analyzing semantic shifts within meme culture, thus providing a framework for understanding the broader linguistic and cultural implications of social media trends (Olu, 2024; Adeleke, 2025).
Objectives of the Study
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To document semantic innovations in Nigerian meme culture.
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To analyze the linguistic devices that facilitate rapid semantic change.
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To assess the cultural impact of memes on public discourse.
Research Questions
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What are the key semantic innovations evident in Nigerian memes?
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How do memes employ linguistic devices to convey multiple meanings?
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What is the cultural significance of these semantic shifts?
Significance of the Study
This study illuminates the transformative role of memes in driving semantic change within Nigerian digital culture. Its findings will enhance our understanding of how social media trends influence language evolution and cultural expression, offering valuable insights for linguists, media scholars, and digital marketers (Ibrahim, 2023; Olu, 2024; Adeleke, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is confined to the analysis of memes on Nigerian social media and does not include other digital or traditional media formats.
Definitions of Terms
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Semantic Innovations: New or altered meanings in language.
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Meme Culture: The collective practices surrounding the creation and dissemination of memes.
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Digital Discourse: Communication and language use on digital platforms.
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