A Comparative Analysis of Morphological Structures in Nigerian Urban Slang: A Focus on Lexical Borrowing
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Background of the Study
Nigerian urban slang is a vibrant, evolving linguistic phenomenon that encapsulates the creativity and cultural identity of urban youth. This study examines the morphological structures underlying urban slang, with a particular focus on the process of lexical borrowing. In urban contexts, speakers frequently borrow words from indigenous languages, English, and other international lexicons to create hybrid forms that reflect dynamic cultural exchanges (Ojo, 2023). Lexical borrowing enriches the slang lexicon, enabling speakers to express contemporary experiences and social identities through innovative morphological constructions (Ayodele, 2024). By analyzing slang expressions across various urban centers, the research documents patterns in affixation, compounding, and word-formation processes that arise from borrowing. This comparative analysis not only highlights the fluidity of urban language but also underscores the role of social media and globalization in shaping modern lexical practices (Adebisi, 2025). The study aims to contribute to broader linguistic theories on language change and morphological innovation by demonstrating how urban slang functions as a microcosm of linguistic evolution in Nigeria.
Statement of the Problem
Although Nigerian urban slang is widely used and culturally significant, there is a lack of detailed research focusing on its morphological structures, especially concerning lexical borrowing. Existing studies often emphasize vocabulary and stylistic aspects without thoroughly analyzing the word-formation processes that underpin slang (Balogun, 2023). This gap limits our understanding of how borrowed lexical items are adapted morphologically and integrated into everyday language. The absence of systematic analysis on morphological productivity in urban slang hinders the development of comprehensive linguistic models that capture the dynamic nature of contemporary language use (Olatunji, 2024). This study addresses this shortfall by providing a comparative analysis of morphological structures in Nigerian urban slang, focusing on the mechanisms of lexical borrowing and their linguistic impact (Femi, 2025).
Objectives of the Study
- To document the morphological structures in Nigerian urban slang.
- To analyze the process and impact of lexical borrowing in shaping slang vocabulary.
- To compare morphological patterns across different urban centers.
Research Questions
- What morphological processes characterize Nigerian urban slang?
- How does lexical borrowing contribute to the formation of new slang terms?
- What are the comparative differences in morphological structures across urban regions?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it provides a detailed examination of the morphological underpinnings of Nigerian urban slang, contributing to broader linguistic theories on language innovation. The insights gained will enhance our understanding of lexical borrowing processes and their role in contemporary language change, benefiting linguists, sociolinguists, and cultural studies researchers (Ojo, 2023; Ayodele, 2024).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is limited to the analysis of morphological structures in Nigerian urban slang, focusing on lexical borrowing.
Definitions of Terms
- Morphological Structures: The patterns and processes involved in word formation.
- Urban Slang: Informal language used predominantly by urban youth that features creative lexical and grammatical forms.
- Lexical Borrowing: The adoption of words from one language into another.
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