Background of the Study
Social media platforms are transforming language use in Nigeria, with different platforms fostering unique morphosyntactic conventions. This study compares the impact of Twitter and WhatsApp on Nigerian morphosyntax, focusing on differences in sentence structure, word formation, and code-switching practices. Twitter, characterized by brevity and rapid exchange, encourages users to adopt concise and often innovative morphosyntactic constructions, while WhatsApp, with its more conversational context, supports more elaborate syntactic patterns. By collecting and analyzing a corpus of posts and messages from both platforms, this research aims to identify how digital communication environments influence language structure. The study also explores the extent to which global digital trends interact with local language practices to produce hybrid linguistic forms. This comparative analysis provides insights into the evolving nature of Nigerian English in the digital age, contributing to both theoretical linguistics and practical communication strategies (Afolabi, 2023; Olu, 2024; Nwankwo, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Although social media has a profound impact on language, there is limited research comparing morphosyntactic changes across different digital platforms in Nigeria. Variations in language use on Twitter and WhatsApp may lead to divergent syntactic conventions that complicate communication and language standardization (Afolabi, 2023). The absence of a comparative framework limits our understanding of how digital contexts shape language structure, hindering efforts to develop coherent communication strategies for digital literacy (Olu, 2024; Nwankwo, 2025).
Objectives of the Study
To compare morphosyntactic features on Twitter and WhatsApp.
To analyze how digital platform constraints affect language structure.
To recommend strategies for harmonizing digital language use.
Research Questions
What are the key morphosyntactic differences between Twitter and WhatsApp?
How do platform constraints influence syntactic and morphological choices?
What measures can enhance clarity and consistency in digital communication?
Significance of the Study
This study offers a comparative perspective on how social media platforms shape Nigerian morphosyntax, providing valuable insights for educators, policymakers, and digital media developers. Its findings contribute to a deeper understanding of digital language evolution and inform strategies for effective online communication (Afolabi, 2023; Olu, 2024; Nwankwo, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is limited to language data from Twitter and WhatsApp and does not include other social media platforms.
Definitions of Terms
Morphosyntax: The interface between morphology and syntax in language.
Twitter: A microblogging platform with character limits.
WhatsApp: A messaging application that supports conversational exchanges.
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