A Study on the Effect of Digital Communication on Nigerian Morphological Innovation: A Case Study of Instagram Captions
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Background of the Study
Digital communication has revolutionized the way language is used and innovated in Nigeria, especially through visually driven platforms like Instagram. Instagram captions, in particular, have become a creative space where users experiment with word formation processes such as blending, compounding, and the use of abbreviations. These morphological innovations serve not only to express identity but also to reflect cultural trends and digital savvy. In Nigeria, where language diversity is high, Instagram provides a unique laboratory for observing how traditional linguistic elements are reshaped by digital constraints such as character limits and the need for visual brevity (Ibrahim, 2023). This study investigates how Instagram captions foster morphological innovation by comparing user-generated captions across various accounts. It examines the interplay between traditional morphological structures and emerging digital forms, exploring how social media influences language creativity and transformation. The research also considers the role of code-switching and hybrid language use in the evolution of Nigerian digital discourse. By documenting these innovations, the study aims to contribute to our understanding of language evolution in the digital era, informing both academic theory and practical applications in digital communication (Adebola, 2024; Okafor, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Despite the widespread use of Instagram in Nigeria, there is limited research on how digital communication influences morphological innovation. Traditional word formation processes are being reshaped by the platform’s constraints, yet systematic documentation is lacking (Ibrahim, 2023). This gap hinders our ability to understand the full impact of digital media on language evolution and may affect how language preservation initiatives are designed. The absence of a clear framework for analyzing Instagram captions impedes educators, linguists, and digital marketers from effectively harnessing these innovations for communication. Without such insights, valuable morphological shifts may remain undocumented, potentially leading to misinterpretations of digital linguistic trends (Adebola, 2024; Okafor, 2025).
Objectives of the Study
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To document morphological innovations in Instagram captions.
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To analyze the influence of digital constraints on traditional word formation.
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To evaluate the cultural implications of these linguistic changes.
Research Questions
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How do Instagram captions reflect morphological innovation in Nigeria?
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What digital constraints influence word formation processes?
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What cultural factors contribute to these innovations?
Significance of the Study
This study illuminates the transformative effect of digital communication on Nigerian morphology, offering insights into language evolution in online contexts. The findings will benefit linguists, educators, and digital marketers by providing a framework for understanding and leveraging morphological innovation in digital media (Ibrahim, 2023; Adebola, 2024; Okafor, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses exclusively on Instagram captions produced by Nigerian users. It does not cover other digital platforms or offline linguistic practices, and the findings may be influenced by the informal nature of social media language.
Definitions of Terms
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Morphological Innovation: The creation of new word forms through processes like blending and compounding.
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Instagram Captions: Textual descriptions accompanying images on Instagram.
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Digital Communication: The exchange of information through electronic platforms.
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