An Evaluation of Syntax in Nigerian Texting: A Study of Short Message Service (SMS) Patterns
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Background of the study
The advent of Short Message Service (SMS) has reshaped communication practices in Nigeria, prompting significant syntactic adaptations. Nigerian texting is characterized by brevity and efficiency, resulting in non-standard syntax that deviates from traditional grammatical rules. This study evaluates the syntactic patterns in Nigerian SMS messages, focusing on how users employ abbreviations, unconventional punctuation, and creative word order to convey meaning in limited character spaces (Ogun, 2023). The informal nature of texting fosters linguistic innovation, which reflects broader cultural and technological influences on language. By analyzing a corpus of SMS texts from diverse demographic groups, the research investigates how these syntactic modifications affect clarity and user engagement. The study situates these findings within current debates on language evolution in digital communication, highlighting both the adaptive strategies of users and the potential challenges for language education and standardization (Eze, 2024; Balogun, 2025). The outcomes are expected to offer valuable insights into the interplay between technology and language structure, informing future research and practical applications in communication technology.
Statement of the problem
Despite the widespread use of SMS in Nigeria, there is limited systematic research on the syntactic patterns unique to texting. Traditional grammar is often abandoned in favor of concise, efficient communication, leading to potential misunderstandings and reduced clarity (Ogun, 2023). This gap in the literature hinders efforts to understand the impact of digital constraints on language structure and impedes the development of educational strategies that address modern communication practices. This study seeks to address these issues by evaluating the syntax of Nigerian SMS texts, thus providing a clearer picture of how language adapts to technological contexts and informing strategies to improve digital literacy (Eze, 2024).
Objectives of the study:
1. To document prevalent syntactic patterns in Nigerian SMS texts.
2. To analyze the impact of these patterns on communication clarity.
3. To propose recommendations for enhancing digital communication strategies.
Research questions:
1. What are the dominant syntactic features in Nigerian texting?
2. How do these features influence message interpretation?
3. What measures can improve syntactic clarity in SMS communication?
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it provides an in-depth evaluation of syntactic patterns in Nigerian SMS communication, offering insights into the impact of digital media on language structure. The findings will benefit linguists, educators, and technologists by informing strategies to bridge the gap between traditional grammar and modern texting practices, ultimately enhancing digital literacy (Balogun, 2025).
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study focuses exclusively on the syntax of Nigerian SMS texts. It does not extend to other digital communication forms or language varieties.
Definitions of terms:
1. Syntax: The set of rules that govern sentence structure.
2. Short Message Service (SMS): A text messaging service used for brief communication.
3. Texting: Informal written communication via mobile devices.
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