A Study on the Effect of Multilingualism on Nigerian Phonetic Variation: A Case Study of Lagos Street Interviews
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Background of the Study
Lagos, Nigeria’s bustling metropolis, is a melting pot of languages and cultures where multilingualism is a way of life. In everyday street interactions, speakers frequently switch among languages such as Yoruba, English, and Pidgin, leading to notable phonetic variations. This study investigates how multilingualism affects phonetic variation in Lagos through a series of street interviews. The research examines aspects such as vowel quality, consonant articulation, and intonation patterns that are influenced by the interplay of multiple languages in spontaneous conversation. By recording and analyzing street interviews, the study aims to document how linguistic diversity shapes phonetic production in naturalistic settings. The findings will highlight how exposure to different phonological systems results in hybrid pronunciations and accent modifications. This investigation not only contributes to sociolinguistic theory but also provides insights for language policy and education in multicultural urban environments. Understanding these phonetic variations is essential for improving communication strategies in a city where multilingualism is the norm (Olu, 2023; Ibrahim, 2024; Adebola, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Despite Lagos’s rich linguistic diversity, there is limited systematic research on the phonetic effects of multilingualism in everyday street interactions. Variations in pronunciation resulting from language contact may lead to communication challenges and impact social integration (Olu, 2023). The lack of empirical data on how multiple language systems interact in spontaneous speech hinders our understanding of phonetic adaptation in multilingual environments. This study addresses this gap by analyzing phonetic variations in street interviews, offering insights into the dynamic effects of multilingualism on accent formation and speech clarity (Ibrahim, 2024; Adebola, 2025).
Objectives of the Study
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To document phonetic variations in Lagos street interviews.
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To analyze the influence of multilingualism on accent and pronunciation.
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To provide recommendations for effective communication in multilingual settings.
Research Questions
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How does multilingualism affect phonetic variation in Lagos street speech?
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What specific phonetic changes are observed in multilingual interactions?
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How can these insights improve communication strategies in diverse urban environments?
Significance of the Study
This study contributes valuable insights into the effects of multilingualism on phonetic variation in Lagos, informing sociolinguistic theory and language policy. Its findings will benefit educators, policymakers, and communication specialists by highlighting how language contact shapes everyday speech in multilingual urban settings (Olu, 2023; Ibrahim, 2024; Adebola, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is limited to street interviews in Lagos and does not extend to formal media or academic speech.
Definitions of Terms
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Multilingualism: The use of multiple languages by an individual or community.
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Phonetic Variation: Differences in speech sound production.
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Street Interviews: Informal conversations conducted in public spaces.
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